The Persistent Struggle: Discrimination Against The Disabled in a Rapidly Developing World

Living in a world predominantly designed for able-bodied individuals poses significant challenges for those with disabilities. Invisible barriers often prevent full participation in daily life, and subtle microaggressions frequently go unnoticed, yet profoundly impact individuals. As someone who has experienced these challenges firsthand, I am here to shed light on the ongoing issue of discrimination against the disabled. This article delves into the experiences and struggles faced by the disabled community, from everyday inconveniences to more severe human rights violations.

Microaggressions and Invisibility

The experience of navigating the world as a disabled individual often involves a reluctance to reveal one's disability due to fears of exclusion or discrimination. Everyday scenarios such as encountering stairs or navigating a crowded space can become daunting tasks. In such instances, the barrier is not just physical but also emotional and social. Moreover, instances of 'turning invisible' occur with alarming frequency. This phenomenon is when shop staff ignore a disabled person or act as if they are not there. While these may not seem substantial, they contribute significantly to feelings of devaluation and invisibility. Moreover, these microaggressions often stem from a lack of understanding or a misplaced ignorance about the experiences of people with disabilities.

Legitimate Complaints and Backlash

A notable example that highlights the challenges faced by the disabled community involves a service dog and a transit company, Uber. A person with a service dog was denied the use of their service dog in an Uber. Despite well-established laws mandating the acceptance of service animals by transportation services and businesses, such incidents continue to occur. When the individual in question reported the injustice on social media, they faced a significant amount of backlash. This only serves to highlight the prevailing attitude of some that there is a gray area when it comes to respecting the rights of disabled individuals.

Personal Perspectives from India

My home, India, is a country with diverse regions and cultures, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for people with disabilities. Growing up in Goa, which is often referred to as the 'Rome of the East' due to its westernized culture and many churches, offered a stark contrast to other parts of India. I have a brother with a mental disability, and his experiences shed light on both the positive and negative aspects of life for people with disabilities.

Though my brother faced some discrimination, he was fortunate to receive a substantial amount of support from our mother, who ensured he could function and thrive as much as possible. She taught him to speak, listen, and learn in English, and helped him stay organized. Our mother played a crucial role in both educational and social settings.

The treatment my brother received from society, however, was variable. When he was young, some people in our community were indifferent to his presence, sometimes even aloof. Yet, as he made progress, those attitudes began to change. It is largely due to the supportive environment in Goa, a state with a strong Portuguese influence, that my family and my brother could live relatively respectfully. In many parts of north India, the situation is starkly different. Discrimination against the disabled runs rampant, with people frequently making fun, bullying, and criticizing family members of individuals with disabilities.

It's important to note that not all parts of northern India are hostile. Some communities and families are remarkably supportive. However, the overall trend remains concerning, and much work is needed to bring marginalized communities to the forefront of societal acceptance.

Conclusion

Discrimination against the disabled is a complex issue, often stemming from a lack of understanding, inadequate public policies, and systemic barriers. It is crucial to recognize and address these challenges through education, advocacy, and progressive legislation. The journey towards a more inclusive society requires collective effort and a commitment to creating a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can fully participate and thrive.