Social Issue: People With Disabilities

Throughout history people have viewed those with disabilities unable to participate in society and thought that they were incompatible. Even in ancient times the Romans cast out and killed children with disabilities because they believed they were worthless, or that their lives were useless. It was around the enlightenment that the idea a person can be improved shed light on children with disabilities. With development of science and understanding people have accepted those with disabilities. However, there are still people even today that do not fully understand the capabilities they have and discriminate against those that are less able. In the news there has been debates over a story about a woman on The Dr. Phil show that was fighting for the right to be able to end her disabled children’s lives because she felt they were suffering, incompatible, and wanted to die. News media has debated whether this is humane or inhumane and whether or not the woman fails to understand her children’s capabilities. The legislation passed by the government has helped this social issue. In 1990, The Americans with Disabilities Act was given that helped give people with disabilities equality in society and chances to participate and get the help they need.

In Title 2: State and Local Government Activities, states “State and local governments give people with disabilities an equal opportunity to benefit from all of their programs, services, and activities (e.g. public education, employment, transportation, recreation, health care, social services, courts, voting, and town meet)” Another piece of legislation that helped dramatically in helping the disabled was The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. In the situation the concept of eugenics is being applied in the legislation's passed. Eugenics is idea that one can be improved. By passing these legislation's they are not only now able to provide extra classes and help at school but also outside of school. They have the right to be able to go to public schools and have same opportunities with other students. This is helping encourage special needs kids to be a part of our society and socialize with us. Providing the opportunity be taught like everyone else often without special classes. People are always going to underestimate the potential of those with disabilities, but with the help of legislation and not too much over regulation people with or without disabilities can learn to socialize and work together as one.