We live with a contradiction. On the one hand, there is a global pandemic that affects everyone, everywhere. It is a lesson in solidarity. On the other hand, there is stigma around disability, whether it be from society or the disability community. It is a lesson in solidarity.
COVID-19 has been the greatest social disruptor of our time. It has divided our friends and family, left some unable to work, and forced others to adjust their life for what will likely be many months.
The best hope for this situation is to continue to build community in solidarity and to work together to build a better world for all.
Our community and our world has been through these times before. In 1918, influenza spread worldwide in pandemic form. A global public health crisis led to a global flu vaccine shortage and close to 100,000 deaths worldwide. This time is different, but it is very possible that we will be able to slow the spread of the virus, and our healthcare systems are vastly more prepared for the illness and its impact on our physical and mental health.
The good news is that people with disabilities are extremely resilient. They have strong immune systems. They are still able to travel and visit their loved ones. The best hope for this situation is to continue to build community in solidarity and to work together to build a better world for all.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been the greatest social disruptor of our time.
Let’s keep in mind that despite these disruptions, many in our communities have maintained consistent schedules of care and support throughout our lives. In addition to the universal health and care services that were available to everyone before COVID-19, many disabled people have cared for, cooked, cleaned, supported, and loved others throughout our lives, and even throughout this pandemic. Disabled people have always been the caregivers, care receivers, and care-takers. We care for each other, we care for our homes and our belongings, we care for our families and for our communities. In addition to these things, disabled people have had to cope with being disrespected, discriminated against, and even demonized.
For disabled people, COVID-19 has brought many more challenges. There is stigma about disability, whether it be from society or the disability community. Social isolation. Challenges with employment and maintaining consistent employment. Challenges with accessing health care. Challenges with transportation. Challenges with navigating public spaces. People with disabilities have had to deal
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