Talking Points #9

Citizenship in School:  Re-conceptualizing Down Syndrome
Christopher Kliewer

Quotes:

1.  "Now we know that people with disabilities can learn and have a full, rich life.  The challenge is to erase negatives attitudes about people with developmental disabilities, get rid of the stereotypes and break the barriers for people with disabilities."

I completely agree with this quote and honestly is makes me angry.  It makes me angry because I know that these stereotypes will never change no matter how hard we try.  Stereotypes are passed down from generation to generation and not only about mentally disabled people.  This goes for all of the other readings we were assigned because the main issue in all of them revolve around the stereotypes made whether it's white privileged, social status, or handicapped people. 

2.  "Dialogue cannot occur...between those who deny others the right to speak their word and those whose right to speak has been denied them.  Those who have been denied their primordial right to speak their word must first reclaim this right...Dialogue imposes itself as the way by which [people] achieve significance as human beings."

I really loved this quote.  There is nothing more important then the freedom of speech.  No one can form their own identity if they are not able to speak.  However, if people are refused the right to speak like some mentally disabled, then it may seem as if they are trapped within themselves and cannot form their own being. 

3.  "If you came into the room and were told there was a retarded child in the class, a child with special needs, I don't think you would pick Lee out.  The kids really agree that he's as capable as they are.  Intellectually the same."

It amazes me that people automatically assume that because someone has special needs that they will stand out like a sore thumb.  They are still human beings, except they require a little bit extra TLC and maybe they have more difficulty learning.  This doesn't mean that they aren't human and don't deserve the same chances that we do.  Also...I hate when people call other retarded...it is extremely offensive to them.  People with special needs have feelings also!