I really enjoyed our class discussion on ableism. I never really thought much in depth about how people who have a disability can suffer and be undermined in our society. I find it sad how society, groups those as disabled as not being able to contribute much of anything. I feel that the disabled should be given equal treatment as everybody else because we are all human beings. One part of the discussion I liked was how there are more programs in high schools were the disabled are able to interact with the able-bodies. This gives a chance where people are able to learn about others that they will typically not interact with. My high school has the Best Buddies program where we the disabled are given the same opportunities as the able-body. The program throws homecoming and prom parties which are some of the biggest events of the year.
The video clip shown in class about the disabled girl was an eye opener to me. I could not believe that teachers, who are supposed to help the girl learn, were mocking her and calling her stupid. I thought it was sad that nobody believed her until she had proof by tape recording the teachers. This shows how the disabled are still undermined in our society. I am happy that the teachers got exposed and hopefully more schools will supervise the teaching style of these specialists. Overall, I think that the general public needs to be more aware of the issues the disabled. I think there are common stereotypes of the disabled that are not commonly addressed.
I agree it is a really good idea that high schools have different programs to integrate the disabled students with other students. I think it is really helpful for these students to be able to interact with others and feel like they are included and appreciated in their school.