Disability
is universal. As evidenced by global statistics, disability exists in every
culture, in all nations around the world. Although there have been improvements
in civil rights for individuals with disabilities in several countries. To address
inequities and discrimination against people with disabilities, a disability
culture has emerged to advocate for equality, inclusion, and social justice and
promote disability awareness and sensitivity.
Several
disciplines (for example, psychology, sociology, education, medicine, and law)
have recognized the importance of addressing disability issues and have
collaboratively created a new discipline. As a discipline, disability studies
take an interdisciplinary approach to explore disability from experiential,
historical, and cultural perspectives. Disability studies have helped the
disability movement take strides towards greater equality for people with
disabilities. With the emergence of a disability culture, public perceptions of
disability and attitudes towards people with disabilities have experienced
gradual paradigm shifts.
It is
important we instill in our youth an awareness of disability and continue to
promote sensitivity to disability issues. Educating youth to understand people
with disabilities are people like everyone else can shift negative perceptions
of disability towards acceptance and respect. This curriculum is intended to
provide educational tools that promote disability awareness and sensitivity. We
believe if children are given the tools to understand disability, they will be
able to see disability more positively. In turn, as they become more sensitive
and aware of disability issues, they can then create change in the world around
them. As our children are our future, it is within their power to create a
society where all people are respected and valued for their unique abilities
and strengths. Why is it
important to understand disability and how to treat people with disabilities with
respect and dignity? Because, everyone will encounter someone with a disability
at least once in their life.
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