Diversity

The purpose of this course was to highlight the prejudice and discrimination that individuals with disabilities face. Weather that be inequities in healthcare, societal stereotypes or unconscious bias we hold as students this course broke down important topics. in We also defined disability. We discussed the importance of defining it, what it addresses and guides practice. We also discussed the history of disability and the significance of the ada and disability rights movement. ​​​​

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A skill we practiced during this course was disability awareness. This course emphasized the importance of health equity in America and how we are the future for change. We looked within ourselves to unpack unconscious biases we may have about individuals with disabilities and asked a probing question; why? Disability awareness as a society is important because it ensures that individuals with disabilities are seen and treated with equality, dignity, and respect. 

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The main project  in this course was the wheelchair experience. This assignment highlighted accessibility (or lack there of) on campus. We were instructed to use a wheelchair for a day on campus and write a reflection. I went to class, participate in a leisure activity, and respond questions from my peers. The purpose of this assignment was not to see what its like to have a disability for a day, but to pivot our perspective. As a class we were met with stereotypes, unsolicited help and an inaccessible world. ​

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This class was impactful but it fueled my passion for advocacy. Learning about the history of disability and the inequities in healthcare makes me want to be apart of the change. It brought about self awareness that we are the future. If we don't have probing conversation, who else will? Its important to me that individuals with disabilities are accounted for equally in healthcare, in society, and in recreational therapy. ​