In my first Text Tuesday I briefly discussed a book called A Disability History of the United States by Kim E. Nielsen. If you are so inclined you can buy it on Amazon here: http://www.amazon.com/Disability-History-United-ReVisioning-American/dp/0807022047/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1424725645&sr=1-1&keywords=disability+history+of+the+united+states
I felt like one post just doesn't do this book justice so I am creating a Text Tuesday series.
One topic that resonated with me was disability in indigenous American tribes. The traditional world view of indigenous American tribes was anyone and everyone (regardless of physical ability, mental difference, sensory differences etc.) can contribute to the growth and nurturing of society. With this worldview the concept of disability didn't even exist. Societal focus was about creating relationships and contributing as a part of the community.
Once the Europeans came to the Americas they set up institutions and essentially forced disability on indigenous Americans. The Europeans set up specific institutions that were geared specifically toward the indigenous American community. The conditions of the institutions were abysmal. Of course families in the tribes didn't want their family members going to those institutions for outside care because it meant being away from their community.
The United States has a very sorded past concerning oppressed groups. While reading this book I became increasingly aware of our nation's past. I felt a slew of emotions while reading but I'm glad to finally understand American history from an oppressed perspective.
This book will lead to increased awareness of the truths of how oppressed groups have been treated in the United States. It will give you a clear picture of disability history both the good and the bad. I guarantee there is a lot to learn. Thanks for reading!
Another Text Tuesday next week!
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