The spoken word is very powerful. We are all shaped by what we hear and what we think. Our friends at Workers' Comp Insider, a weblog by Lynch Ryan, recently posted On Redefining Disability. It includes a video of Aimee Mullins delivering a presentation about how we describe people who are "disabled." Aimee, born with out fibulae in both legs, has achieved worldwide media attention as an athlete. Her story is amazing. She has overcome all obstacles put in front of her and has achieved success beyond belief. All this to someone born with a "disability" and who was given a bleak medical prognosis.
Rethink before you speak
The video features Aimee's recent presentation at the TED conference last year. In her talk, Aimee challenges us to rethink the words we use to describe people who are "disabled." It is a moving and powerful discussion. The video is is 22 minutes long, but well worth it.
Leave a comment