Reflection on How a Sanctuary for Self Expression Can Save Lives

Reed talks about how she did not feel aligned with her assigned birth identity and the struggles she had to endure.. When she attended Camp I Am, this allowed her to feel aligned with others who have similar perspectives on themselves. I felt this camp was an excellent resource for people in Reed's shoes to share personal experiences and to feel accepted in comparison to the systemic norms of society.

Blog 9 Elminating Ableism by Hehir

Argument

Eliminating Ableism in Education by Thomas Hehir 

Hehir talks about how ableism is a structural problem embedded in educational systems. He highlights that students with disabilities face physical, social, and institutional barriers that prevent them from fully participating in their educational experience. These barriers limit students' opportunities for academic achievement and reinforce negative stereotypes about their capabilities. Students with disabilities should be integrated into general education classrooms, with necessary accommodations and support. Inclusion is not only beneficial for students with disabilities but also enriches the educational experience for all students by promoting diversity, empathy, and mutual respect. Creating environments where all students can thrive and learn from each other’s differences could promote challenging these stereotypes. Students with disabilities are often seen as incapable of achieving success, which leads to limited opportunities and a lack of support. By challenging this perspective, the belief that abilities can be developed with effort, perseverance, and the right support could contribute to a student's experience. High expectations foster a growth mindset and challenge the societal perceptions that disabilities automatically equate to limitations. Calling for a broader commitment from educators, policymakers, and society could ensure that students with disabilities are given equitable opportunities to succeed. This includes better teacher training, IEPs, accessible learning environments, and the dismantling of physical and social barriers that hinder inclusion. Collaboration with families within the communities of school with high rates of students with disabilities is another important factor in this systemic change. Involving parents, caregivers, and the community at large is crucial in supporting students with disabilities. Families often have valuable insight into their children’s needs, and engaging them helps ensure that the educational experience is tailored to each student’s unique requirements. 

Reflecting on Hehir's perspectives, he gives us a sense of clarity about the path to eliminating ableism is not only about policy changes but about shifting attitudes and breaking down long-standing prejudices. Creating inclusive, supportive, and accessible educational environments requires a collective effort to challenge societal norms and build a culture of inclusion and respect.