Multiplying the Kindness
the problem:
In today's world, children and adults with disabilties are constantly discriminated against. Mental and physical disabilities are wrongfully considered comical and disrespectful words alluding to disabilities are used daily. In school, I hear jokes and laughter that could not possibly be less funny: the word "retarded" is not meant to be a simple synonym for stupid. Quite honestly, the word should not be used at all in a derogatory sense. With my project, I am trying to educate others about disabilities and about the wrongs of using such hurtful terms.
vital stats:
people impacted:
50people involved:
25why it's important:
Disabilities should not be a cause of shame or laughter. Individuals with duisabilities should not be denied the lives they deserve and they should certainly not be compelled to fall victim to others' lack of kindness and understanding. I believe that everyone deserves a joyful life and that fairness is key to a good society.
When I joined Special Olympics as a volunteer three years ago, I did not know how passionate I would become about the organization. I have made friends with many disabled individuals, young and old, male and female, and realize now more that ever that they are very much a part of our society. In fact, they are often kinder and more understanding than others and they deserve the benefits and privileges that everyone else enjoys. I am passionate because of the experiences I have lived through as a result of Special Olympics. And I would not trade them for the world.
the plan of action:
I attend Special Olympics practices weekly, working with athletes and teaching new volunteers about various disabilities and about how to act in certain situations. Yet, although I participate in hands-on work up to three days a week, my efforts to teach others about this organization never stop. From day to day, whenever I hear someone using hurtful words that relate to disabilities, I stop them and ask them to abstain from using such words. However long this process takes, I will continue to involve others in my efforts to prevent the comedy that has somehow woven itself around disabilities. Now, many of my classmates and acquaintances know to never use hurtful words like "retarded" in my presence, because they can clearly see by my expressions how much pain and anger that causes me. I will always hold onto my passion for special needs. In the future I hope to become a pediatric neurologist to help children with spinal or mental conditions live their lives to the fullest, in happiness and freedom.
how you can get involved:
Everyone can, and should, help me in my goal to prevent the use of hurtful terms. They are unnecessary and painful, even if they do not specifically refer to disabilities. Volunteers for programs like Special Olympics are always welcome as well, as long as their intentions are to help those with disabilities. Also, it is important to educate others about the truth about disabilities -that they do affect a person's life, but that they should never be a cause of shame.
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