Why Can't Some People Accept Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities Who Do Not Appear Physically Disabled?

Creating a kinder and more empathetic world where everyone is accepted regardless of abilities is an ideal vision for society. However, human nature often leads us to form judgments about others based on a variety of factors.

The Bias Against Intellectual Disabilities

Despite the progress that has been made, there is still significant bias and misunderstanding surrounding individuals with intellectual disabilities. Going back to the early 1900s, eugenics was a widespread and deeply harmful belief. This pseudoscientific movement, supported by scientists and politicians, sought to 'improve' the human race by eliminating those deemed genetically 'inferior' or 'undesirable.'

The legacy of eugenics is particularly evident in the Nazi Holocaust, where millions of people deemed intellectually disabled and other 'genetically inferior' individuals were systematically exterminated. Although eugenics is now widely discredited, the movement left an indelible mark on how society views and treats individuals with intellectual disabilities.

The Role of the Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), enacted in 1990, marked a significant milestone in the fight for equal rights. One of the key provisions of ADA Title II required the integration of individuals with intellectual disabilities into community settings instead of remaining in institutions. However, the implementation of this law has been far from smooth.

Even as recently as 1999, the U.S. Supreme Court had to enforce Title II of the ADA to ensure compliance. Ironically, nearly half of all U.S. states, including Georgia, were initially unwilling to enforce this provision of the law. This resistance highlights the pervasive discomfort and prejudice still present in some communities.

Personal Experiences and Perspectives

Reflecting on my personal experiences, my daughter, born in 1991, has faced a range of challenges and biases throughout her life. During her early days, doctors advised the institutionalization of my daughter due to severe physical and cognitive disabilities as a result of a massive stroke she endured at birth. It took significant resistance and insistence for me to prevent her from being sent away, highlighting the deeply rooted prejudices that persist.

Despite my daughter's physical and mental health challenges, there have been moments where she has defied expectations. In a graduation photo from six years ago, my daughter looked like any other high school graduate, albeit her behavior seemed more akin to that of an 8-9-year-old child. This should not come as a surprise, as her journey has been filled with both successes and challenges.

The Road to Acceptance

While laws regulating the treatment of individuals with intellectual and other disabilities have become more stringent, especially since the passage of the ADA in 1990, attitudes lag behind. The Civil Rights Movement, the LGBTQ rights movement, and ongoing efforts to change societal norms demonstrate the difficulty in altering deeply ingrained biases.

Despite the progress we've made, there is still a long way to go. It is essential to continue advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities while also working to change the attitudes of those around us. By fostering empathy and understanding, we can create a world where everyone is accepted, regardless of their abilities.

Underpinning all this is a need for ongoing education and awareness campaigns to combat ignorance and prejudice. By sharing personal stories and advocating for policy changes, we can make a difference and build a more inclusive society for all.