For my first post I will explain a little more about who I am and why the issue of inclusivity of people with disabilities is so important. When I was 5 or 6 I quickly realized I was not like a lot of other kids because I couldn't read and write. I was diagnosed with a variety of learning disabilities; while the diagnosis is supposed to help teachers know how to teach me, teachers got in the habit of passing me from one grade to the next. They did this sometimes with little to no effort and a lack of respect, other teachers simply didn't know hot to teach me. Because the teachers didn't respect me, the children didn't respect me. So school was not a place that I felt welcome, but church was a place where I felt like I could go and be myself. Even though I struggled to be included with children my own age at church, the congregation as a whole was supportive and cheering me on.
After going to a private school and learning more about how I learn and what works best for me, I went back to public school and graduated from high school and then college. Through all of this time my congregation was rooting for me. What changed my life was working with adults and children with disabilities while working at a YMCA. I had always been an advocate for people with disabilities, partly because I was a self advocate and resonated with them. But when I heard stories from the children and adults with disabilities and parents of persons with disabilities, I was shocked to find out that churches, temples, synagogues, etc. were asking people to leave because they were being "disruptive", "too loud, " "distracting", or "there is no place for you/them". Hearing this was like a shot to the heart; I couldn't believe that congregations (no matter what the religion) were shutting people out.
I had been planning on going to seminary, because I was interested to go into the ministry. After hearing this it was as if the stories came streaming in. I started hearing of so many people who were not being welcomed into their congregations. So as I went into seminary, it started to become clear that God was calling me to advocate for people with disabilities in congregations. This blog is not about me, but it is about how congregations of all faiths are called to welcome everyone and provide a place ALONG SIDE one another. I am not accusing anyone or any particular faith; instead I understand that it is hard to include people who may have different needs and abilities than we are used to. It was only in 1990 when schools had to integrate persons with disabilities in the schools. Throughout history persons with disabilities have been considered the lowest/least respected members of society. it is my understanding that this lack of inclusivity is because there is a lack of understanding and knowledge, understanding, and socialization of persons with disabilities. I look forward to our conversations in the future.
Peace and Blessings.
