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KEYNOTE ADDRESSES ON DISABILITY ISSUES |
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THE OTHER SIDE OF THERAPY: Disability, Normalcy, and the Tyranny of Rehabilitation
In this presentation, Norman Kunc points out that individuals with disabilities have "the right to be disabled." He describes a series of events in his life which led him to the realization that disability is not a deficiency but a vital part of the diversity of the human community. Norman recounts his experience with rehabilitation and questions whether therapy really serves the best interests of the "client" or whether it is a symptom of a society which idolizes normalcy and perfection. He examines some of the assumptions which underlie rehabilitation and the harmful impact that therapy can have on an individual. Norman encourages parents to focus on their child's "physical well-being" rather than attempting to eradicate the disability through relentless therapy.  |
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HELL-BENT ON HELPING: Friendship, Benevolence, and the Politics of Help
People with disabilities need respectful support and authentic relationships if they are to become valued members of our classrooms and communities. Unfortunately, well-intended but misguided benevolence often contaminates support and friendship with paternalism and patronization. Emma and Norm examine benevolence in its various forms and offer some ideas on how to provide dignified assistance and foster genuine connections in the community. |