Discourse of Disability

Navigating the complexities of life while reflecting on my journey and the broader ​historical context of discrimination against​ the disabled. The laws and historical events ​that have shaped the experiences of disabled individuals, particularly​ at the intersections of race, gender, disability, and socioeconomic status. These intersections complicate modern dialogues on these issues, and current examples highlight how race and gender continue to impact ​discussions​ on disability rights negatively.
The discourse of an individual with a disability and the ability to obtain resources to have a productive impact on society has changed over the years but seemed to stall in 1999. In the early years, an individual with a disability was looked at as unproductive and or mentally retarded. Being able to have access to resources that would help them have a productive individual. As a person who has an intellectual and communication disability born in 1978, I have seen some of the changes that came, though only drops in the bucket.

Three historical events include the Olmstead case, decided on June 22, 1999, which involved two women with disabilities who were institutionalized without cause. The ​Supreme Court ruled​ that ​people could​ not be isolated if they could participate in community life, with the help of the American Disability Association (ADA), marking a significant victory in the fight for the rights of the disabled. Another notable historical figure is President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who had a physical disability and supported the March of Dimes in 1932.

Although the Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964, giving rights to Black people and women in the workforce, it denied rights to the disabled. It wasn’t until 1975 that the ​Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act was enacted and​ ​amended in 1993 to recognize disability as a natural part of the human experience​. these are just a few examples of how U.S. society is impacted. As much as these have helped individuals access the needed resources, they are mainly the individual’s rights and still lack the resources to support the individual as a child learn ways to get around their disability.

​​Historically, the intersection of disability with race, gender, and socioeconomic status​ has created compound layers ​of discrimination. For instance, disabled women of color​ have faced ​unique challenges due to​ their multiple marginalized identities. They have often been excluded from both disability rights movements and feminist movements, highlighting a gap in advocacy and support. Historical accounts reveal that disabled women of color were more likely to be institutionalized and denied basic rights compared to their white counterparts. This intersectionality complicates their experiences and underscores the need for inclusive advocacy that addresses all facets of their identities.
Modern dialogues around disability issues are still complicated by race and gender biases. Current examples, such as disparities in healthcare access and employment opportunities, illustrate how these biases persist. Disabled people are less likely to receive adequate healthcare and more likely to face employment discrimination. These ongoing issues demonstrate that despite legal advancements, societal attitudes and systemic barriers continue to hinder true equality for disabled individuals. ​Recognizing​ ​and addressing these​ modern challenges is crucial for creating ​a more inclusive and​ equitable society.
Reflecting on the historical context and modern challenges disabled individuals face, particularly at the intersections of race, gender, and socioeconomic status, emphasizes the importance of inclusive advocacy. Understanding this complex history and its impact on contemporary issues ​is essential for fostering a more equitable society​. By acknowledging our shared humanity and striving for justice, we can ensure that all individuals, regardless of their identities, are seen, valued, and supported.