Two families both are going to a family event that has booths where you can play games with your child, or get information about programs and activities within the community. The families both need a sign language interpreter, at a meeting the facilitator of the event says, ‘Can’t we just get one interpreter, and they can go around the booths together?”
This facilitator was not intentional with his microaggression towards the two families, but none the less what he was suggesting was segregation based off need of two families. The inequality he expressed was that they would have to go to the booths together, he was taking away their freedom to choose what booth they could both start with, and move to throughout the event.
My first reaction was more internal, a sense of disbelief that he would think this was an ok solution. I then ran the gamut of frustration, anger, even resentment toward him that he could think this way.
I immediately spoke out about the issue and gave an explanation that each family had a personal right to have their own interpreter and move freely through the event just like everyone else. I shared my thoughts on segregation and the insult this action would place upon the family.
It is unfortunate that individuals with special needs have to endure such situations but at least you spoke out on their behalf and brought to the attention of the facilitor so that hopefullly in the future he will be mindful when he is faced with this or a simular situation in the future.
ReplyDeleteChris,
ReplyDeleteHow unfortunate the dignity of each family was not a priority. The facilitator was acting out of convenience instead of respecting each family as a unique, individual unit.
How great that you advocated for the families, turning an uncomfortable situation into a teaching moment.
Joey