A Reflection on the History of Treating Disabilities in America

     Our previous class session focused on the history of treating disabilities in America. This was a very sensitive and emotional topic of conversation. We began the class session by watching the 1968 documentary "Suffer the Little Children." This eye-opening film showed direct footage from the Pennhurst institution. 

    Pennhurst was a facility for people of all ages with all kinds of impairments– physical and mental. This specific institution operated before any regulations were enforced to keep this part of the population safe. Rooms were overcrowded and unclean, and the staff was not trained to provide adequate care. As a result, thousands of people suffered from social neglect and various forms of abuse. Throughout the 1960's and previous decades, people with disabilities were viewed as taboo and a nuisance to society. Once placed in an institution, this population was shut off from their families and the rest of the public. As a result, the events that took place within the institutions were overlooked. Once this documentary and others alike were accessible to the public, many realized the urgent need for change. However, it took many more years before these thoughts became actions. 

    After watching "Suffer the Little Children," guest speaker Bruce Kiesling shared a presentation with our class. This presentation went into further detail about the history of disability portrayal, including present-day events. Despite previous stigmas, our society has made vast improvements. People with various disabilities are given greater freedom and opportunity than ever before. Although I believe there is still plenty room for improvement, I am thankful to live in a time period where people with disabilities are integrated into the general public. 

    This class session was particularly emotional for me. As a sibling of someone with multiple disabilities, I cannot fathom the disrespect and horror my sister would have faced in earlier decades. Even though I had previously learned about this part of history, this topic was especially difficult to watch and discuss in detail. Going forward, I would love to become further involved in improving society's perspective on disabilities. Dr. Kiesling shared very insightful information on the university's center for developmental disabilities, and I would love to learn even more. I also plan to visit the center during my time at UT and hopefully find a way to take part in their mission of empowering others.