The Fight to Change Perceptions on Intellectual Disabilities

by Marina Baldry January 20, 2012 New opportunities, scientific advances and a broadening public view have caused an influx of centers and services for disabled individuals. Today, there are hundreds of service centers promoting independent living and changing the way we view intellectual disabilities. An increasing number of studies are examining the way photographic images (Epilogues and Prefaces: Research and Social Work and People with Intellectual Disabilities), the media and societys preconceived notions of individuals with disabilities affect the way we think, act and converse with one another. The Look Me in the Eye campaign of Lane County is just one of many activities aiming to put preconceived notions about intellectual disabilities on their axis and address the core societal issues. The Oregon Supported Living Program and Full Access, along with the support and signatures of nine mayors in Lane County, have joined together in creating a proclamation that promotes a change in attitude toward people with developmental disabilities. Many believe that significant attitude changes still need to be made in order to bridge the gap between the disabled and non-disabled communities, while some institutions like the University of Cumbria in Lancaster, UK, argue that large parts of the society currently view such people with great respect and a positive perception. The students from one of the universitys nursing courses state that they have new-found respect for the disabled speakers that come into their classroom for the experiences and hardships that they have endured.

A Eugene-based advocacy group, Mobility International USA, held a workshop in 2010 that aimed to inspire and motivate disabled women attending from around the world to further advocate in their home countries and communities.

Studies done around the world, as well as in community-based advocacy groups, push and strive for a seemingly common goalto create further discussion and cause society to think about the core reasons society portrays intellectually disabled individuals in a certain light. The desire for further examination, understanding and change seems to be spreading throughout todays society.