Embracing Diverse Norms
How Homosexuality Transformed from Illness to Identity
For centuries, homosexuality was considered a taboo topic and often viewed as an illness that needed to be cured. However, over time, the perception of homosexuality shifted, and it became an identity that people hugged.
One of the main factors that contributed to this shift was the Stonewall riots of 1969, which marked the beginning of the gay rights movement. This event was a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, and it sparked a cultural shift that led to more widespread acceptance of homosexuality. As a result, people began to view homosexuality as an integral part of one’s identity, rather than something that needed to be hidden or fixed.
The emergence of LGBTQ+ advocacy groups also played a significant role in the transformation of homosexuality from an illness to an identity. These groups worked tirelessly to combat discrimination and stigma, which helped to shift societal attitudes towards homosexuality.
Moreover, media representation of LGBTQ+ individuals also contributed to this shift. In the past, LGBTQ+ characters were often portrayed as villains or punchlines in popular media. However, in recent years, there has been a push for more diverse and accurate representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in the media. This increased visibility has helped to normalize homosexuality and further solidify it as an identity.
In conclusion, the transformation of homosexuality from an illness to an identity was a complex process that was influenced by various factors. The Stonewall riots, the rise of advocacy groups, and media representation were all instrumental in shifting societal attitudes towards homosexuality. As a result, homosexuality is now viewed as an important aspect of one’s identity, and the LGBTQ+ community continues to fight for equal rights and acceptance.
Identity can be vertical or horizontal and can take time to be accepted
Identity is complex and multifaceted. According to the video script, identity can be vertical or horizontal. Vertical identity is something that people are born with, like their race or gender. Horizontal identity, on the other hand, is something that is acquired over time, like religion or political beliefs.
Horizontal identity can take time to be accepted, especially when it goes against societal norms. For example, being gay was once considered taboo and even illegal in some places. It took years of activism and education for society to accept homosexuality as a horizontal identity.
Even after society starts accepting a particular horizontal identity, it can take time for individuals to accept that part of their identity. The video script mentions the example of a woman who was raised in a conservative family and community that taught her to believe that being gay is wrong. When she realized she was attracted to women, it took her years to come to terms with it and accept it as a part of her identity.
Accepting one’s identity can be a long and difficult journey, but it is essential for self-awareness and self-acceptance. It is important to remember that everyone’s journey is unique and that there is no right or wrong way to come to terms with one’s identity.
Levels of Acceptance for Homosexuality
Acceptance of one’s sexuality is a long and difficult journey, and it is not just about self-acceptance. In the video, the speaker mentions three levels of acceptance that individuals need to go through. These are self-acceptance, family acceptance, and social acceptance.
Self-acceptance is the first step to a fulfilling life. It means recognizing and hugging your own sexual orientation. This can be difficult for many people because of the stigma and discrimination that still exist in society. The speaker in the video emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, stating that “if you cannot accept yourself, then how can you expect others to accept you?”
Family acceptance is also essential for LGBTQ+ individuals. Coming out to family members can be a scary experience, and not all families are accepting. Some families may even disown their LGBTQ+ children. The speaker points out that it takes time for families to adjust and accept their loved ones’ sexual orientation. It is important to give families space and time to process and come to terms with their child’s sexuality.
Social acceptance is the final step, and it is the most challenging level of acceptance for many LGBTQ+ individuals. Society still has a long way to go in terms of accepting and hugging diversity. The speaker notes that “acceptance is not the same as tolerance.” Tolerance implies that there is something wrong with being LGBTQ+, while acceptance means recognizing that people are different, and that is okay.
In conclusion, acceptance of one’s sexuality is a long and difficult journey, and it involves several levels of acceptance. It starts with self-acceptance, then family acceptance, and finally, social acceptance. While progress has been made in society, there is still a long way to go to ensure that all individuals are accepted and hugged for who they are.
The Change in Attitude Towards People with Intellectual Disabilities Has Been Radical
The speaker notes that there has been a significant change in attitudes towards people with intellectual disabilities. In the past, people with disabilities were often institutionalized or hidden away from society, and they faced a great deal of stigma and discrimination. Today, attitudes have changed dramatically, and there is much greater acceptance and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.
The speaker attributes this change to several factors, including changes in laws and policies, increased awareness and education, and a growing understanding of the abilities and contributions of people with intellectual disabilities. She notes that people with intellectual disabilities are now able to participate in society in ways that were once unimaginable, including holding down jobs, living independently, and forming meaningful relationships.
The speaker also emphasizes the importance of continuing to work towards greater acceptance and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities. She notes that there is still much work to be done in terms of changing attitudes and overcoming barriers to inclusion. However, she is optimistic about the future and believes that we can continue to make progress towards a more inclusive and accepting society.
The Cooke Center: A Success Story in Education for Children with Intellectual Disabilities
The speaker discusses the Cooke Center, a school for children with intellectual disabilities that started as two classrooms and has now grown into a large institution with multiple locations in New York City. The center’s approach focuses on each student’s individual needs and abilities, with the goal of helping them become independent and successful in their lives.
The Cooke Center has received recognition for its innovative approach to education, and its success is due in part to the hard work and dedication of its staff. The center has a team of professionals who work together to provide each student with the support they need to succeed academically and socially.
The speaker highlights the center’s philosophy of inclusion and acceptance, which has been a key factor in its success. By creating a positive and supportive environment for children with intellectual disabilities, the center helps them develop confidence and self-esteem. The center also works closely with families to provide the necessary support and resources for their children.
The Cooke Center’s success story is a testament to the power of education and inclusion. It shows that with the right approach and dedicated staff, children with intellectual disabilities can achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
The life expectancy for people with Down Syndrome has tripled
The speaker notes that the life expectancy for people with Down Syndrome has tripled in recent years, from 25 to 60 years old. This is due in part to improved medical care and an increased understanding of the condition. However, there is still work to be done in terms of improving the quality of life for people with Down Syndrome and other intellectual disabilities. The speaker argues that everyone should have access to education and the opportunity to participate in their communities.
There are also ongoing debates about prenatal testing and selective abortion based on a diagnosis of Down Syndrome. Some people argue that these tests lead to a decrease in the number of people with Down Syndrome, which is a form of discrimination. Others argue that parents have the right to choose whether to have a child with a disability, and that prenatal testing allows them to make an informed decision.
Regardless of one’s personal beliefs about prenatal testing, it is clear that people with Down Syndrome are living longer and more fulfilling lives than ever before. The speaker’s work at the Cooke Center is just one example of the many organizations and individuals who are working to create a more inclusive society for people with intellectual disabilities.
Medical Progress has Enabled Cochlear Implants and a Compound to Prevent Dwarfism
In addition to changes in attitudes towards people with disabilities, medical progress has also played a significant role in improving their quality of life. For instance, cochlear implants have transformed the lives of people who are deaf or hard of hearing, allowing them to hear sounds that were previously out of reach. These implants use electrodes to stimulate the auditory nerve and help individuals perceive sound.
Another example of medical progress is the development of a compound to prevent dwarfism. The compound, called BMN 111, targets a specific receptor in the growth hormone axis and has been shown to increase bone growth in children with a form of dwarfism known as achondroplasia. This represents a significant step forward in treating a condition that was previously considered untreatable.
The progress in medicine highlights the potential for significant improvement in the quality of life for people with disabilities. As such, it is crucial to continue supporting medical research in this field.
The Speaker Questions What We Validate and Cure in Our Children
In this part of the video, the speaker questions what we value and prioritize when it comes to medical treatments for children. They cite a quote from autism activist Jim Sinclair: “We are not tragedies. We are not puzzles to be solved. We are not burdens to be borne.” The speaker argues that the medical community often prioritizes finding cures or “fixing” disabilities instead of accepting and accommodating them.
The speaker encourages society to shift its focus to accepting and accommodating differences rather than trying to eliminate them. They argue that children with disabilities should not be viewed as burdens, but as valuable members of society who contribute in their own unique ways.
This point ties into the overall message of the video, which is that the way we view and treat people with disabilities has changed over time, and there is still progress to be made in terms of acceptance and inclusion.
Conclusion
The progress of our society towards acceptance and inclusion of people with disabilities is remarkable. As we have seen, attitudes have changed dramatically over the past few decades. Homosexuality, which was once considered a mental illness, is now recognized as a valid identity. People with intellectual disabilities, who were once hidden away from society, are now given opportunities to learn and thrive at schools like the Cooke Center. And medical advancements have allowed for life-changing interventions like cochlear implants and medications that prevent dwarfism.
However, there is still much work to be done. While self-acceptance, family acceptance, and social acceptance are important steps towards inclusion, many people with disabilities still face discrimination and barriers to participation in society. We must continue to push for progress and work towards a more inclusive society.
It is also important to consider the words of Jim Sinclair, who questioned what we validate and cure in our children. As a society, we must be mindful of our motivations for seeking medical interventions for people with disabilities. While some interventions may be life-changing, we must ensure that we are not seeking to change a person’s essential identity or erase the aspects of their disability that make them who they are.
In conclusion, the progress we have made towards inclusion and acceptance is significant, but we must continue to push for progress and be mindful of the impact of medical interventions on people with disabilities. By working together towards a more inclusive and accepting society, we can create a better world for everyone.
