Disability Stereotyping
Issues such as disability stereotyping are always important to discuss. Having physically “abnormal”, disabled people are considered different in many ways. They are thought of as dependent and incompetent. Even though, they are like everyone else who has both strengths and weaknesses (Shakespeare T, 2013). In the late 20th century, this is what became a concern by activists around the world. They have succeeded in demanding that disability have the same rights. These harmful stereotypes are opposed by the term of disabled to become difable or differently able.
The Stereotype Creates Distrust in People with Disabilities
Because of some prejudice such as hereditary and helpless, the stereotype itself creates distrust in people with disabilities. Even their family members also feel the same. This resulted in people with disabilities not being allowed to leave the house. It is just the same as limiting their space to get the same rights as people without disabilities. This excessive shame makes them feel less valued in their community. No wonder if they are unready or even fearful to socialize with people around.
Skill Assumptions
It seems like physical barriers burden them to be productive. We can take an example at the workplace. The company is always looking for the best employees to hire. This automatically relates to the physical appearance that is used as a measure of productivity. It’s clear that there is a skill assumption toward disabled people. Those with good physical are considered more productive. This employment discrimination makes disabled people unconfident to get a job. Even though, there are no differences between normal and people with disabilities when it comes to productivity (Australian Network on Disability). They are skilled and capable social and economic contributors. They are also able to contribute something valuable to the company or business. Even they have more enthusiasm in working compared to those who are physically normal.
Accommodate What They Need
As time goes by, various groups of people must begin to realize the equality of human rights. It’s not difficult to remove this disability stereotyping. What they want the most is an inclusive and friendly world. Not only that, accommodating all their need become an appreciation for their existence. In essence, every person with a disability is born with equal and everyone must treat them the same way.
Guarantee of Fair Legal Protection
Besides human rights equality, people with disabilities also need legal protection. This is the right step to avoid non-discriminatory treatment. They also need guarantees of fair legal protection like normal people. There are several forms of upholding, respecting, and fulfilling human rights. They have the freedom to be independent and make their own choices. There must be also no restrictions or reductions by anyone.
Conclusion
It can be concluded that disability stereotyping is still exist around us. Their disability status becomes a challenge to compete with those who don’t have disabilities. But then, the door began to open for them to get the same opportunity. There are special facilities for workers with disabilities. This even better coupled with the support of activists and legal protection.
References
Shakespeare T. (2013). Facing up to disability. Community eye health, 26(81), 1–3.
www.and.org.au
