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Michael@Hope.Portal's avatar

Thank you Circles of Courageous Commons for lifting up Disability Pride Month and for sharing "The Anti-Ableist Manifesto" by Tiffany Yu. When I was in fifth grade my Mom lost her eyesight, She went to the Little Rock School for the Blind in Arkansas for 3 months to learn braille, mobility using the cane, and living skills to adapt as a blind person. The language that Tiffany Yu cautions us against, the phrase "The blind leading the blind" is certainly one that was undoubtedly hurtful to my Mom, and it was certainly hurtful to me when I heard it after Mom lost her eyesight. This manifesto has much to teach us.

A Sarcastic Prophet's avatar

I appreciate the alternate phrases. I will say, as a professional musician, there truly are people who can’t hear pitches and/or can’t match pitches vocally. I will honestly ask here for an alternative phrase other than tone deaf to describe this.

Christine's avatar

Thank you for sharing this! What a beautiful explanation of exactly what Tiffany Yu was saying “making a conscious decision to change the way we’ve been speaking for years.”

Thank you for leading the way by your example. ❤️

Antonio Castellaneta's avatar

I appreciated that this piece begins with a real person instead of an abstract idea. Sam’s story reminds us that awareness often starts with listening before assuming we understand someone else’s experience. Thank you for encouraging a conversation rooted in curiosity, inclusion, and respect.

Jean & Pat - In the Commons's avatar

I am grateful that Christine and Sam continue to share their story in our community and in the world. We make a difference with each interaction - opening the path to understanding and dignity.

Stephen T Berg's avatar

Thank you for this important post. I keep learning things here.

Jean & Pat - In the Commons's avatar

Thanks Stephen, we learn from you as well. Glad to be on this journey together.