News: Mocking Wheelchair in USA Sparks Criticism

 

Mocking Wheelchair in USA Sparks Criticism

The controversy surrounding Texas Representative Jasmine Crockett intensified after her appearance at the Human Rights Campaign's annual dinner in Los Angeles.   During her speech, Crockett referred to Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair due to a past accident, as "Governor Hot Wheels." This comment immediately drew sharp criticism, with many interpreting it as a direct mockery of the governor's disability.  

The incident unfolded during a 21-minute speech where, about four and a half minutes in, Crockett addressed her home state.  "We in these hot a** Texas streets, honey," she began, before adding, "Y'all know we got Governor Hot Wheels down there, c'mon now." "The only thing hot about him is that he is a hot a** mess." The crowd responded with laughter and applause, and Crockett briefly joked about deviating from her prepared remarks.

The backlash was swift and severe.    Critics, including figures like Turning Point CEO Charlie Kirk, condemned her words. "Jasmine Crockett continues to embarrass herself, the state of Texas, and the U.S. Congress," Kirk stated on X, highlighting Abbott's paralysis from a 1984 accident. Libs of TikTok echoed this sentiment, calling the comment "sickening".

In response to the mounting criticism, Crockett took to X, attempting to clarify her remarks.  "I wasn't thinking about the governor's condition—I was thinking about the planes, trains, and automobiles he used to transfer migrants into communities led by Black mayors, deliberately stoking tension and fear among the most vulnerable," she explained.  "Literally, the next line I said was that he was a 'Hot A** Mess,' referencing his terrible policies. At no point did I mention or allude to his condition."

Crockett further pointed out the perceived hypocrisy of her critics, noting that those who support figures known for mocking disabilities were now expressing outrage. She drew a direct parallel to past actions, "So, I'm even more appalled that the very people who unequivocally support Trump—a man known for racially insensitive nicknames and mocking those with disabilities—are now outraged.”

The National Republican Congressional Committee also weighed in, with press secretary Mike Marinella stating, "Jasmine Crockett is the perfect spokesperson for today's Democrats: out of touch and completely unhinged." "When you've got no message and no agenda, all that's left is hate."

Source:
NewsWeek & Texastribune

 

International Women's Day 2025

 

International Women's Day 2025

Every year, on March 8th, the world celebrates International Women's Day (IWD), a day dedicated to recognizing the incredible contributions of women and advocating for gender equality. The theme for International Women's Day 2025 is "Empower Her: Elevate Voices, Break Barriers," which is itself meaningful.

International Women's Day has its roots in the early 20th century, when women around the world began organizing and demanding equal rights. Since its first official celebration in 1911, IWD has grown into a global movement that continues to inspire change and progress with the slogan "We can do.".

Women have made remarkable strides across various fields. From pioneering scientists like Marie Curie to trailblazing leaders like Margaret Thatcher, women have reshaped our world. In recent years, figures such as Malala Yousafzai, Kamala Harris, and Greta Thunberg have emerged as powerful advocates for education, representation, and climate action. Their achievements highlight the strength and resilience of women everywhere. Women with disabilities also played their roles, like Hellen Keller, Dr. Fatima Shah, Judy Heumann, Rhonda Graham & Arunima Sinha, Frida Kahlo, and Jessica Cox. There is a long list of successful women with disabilities in the world.

Despite significant progress, many challenges remain. Women continue to face disparities in pay, access to education, and representation in leadership roles. Gender-based violence affects millions of women globally. Addressing these issues requires collective effort and commitment from individuals, organizations, and governments.

In countries like Pakistan, girls and women with disabilities face triple discrimination: being women, facing religious misinterpretation about women in Islam, and contending with cultural norms of South Asia. This intersectionality of gender, disability, and cultural barriers creates a particularly challenging environment for women with disabilities. They often experience exclusion from educational opportunities, limited access to healthcare, and restricted participation in economic activities.

Women with disabilities are often overlooked in mainstream gender movements. Despite the efforts of many advocates, their voices are frequently marginalized, and their specific needs are not adequately addressed. This year's theme, "Empower Her: Elevate Voices, Break Barriers," serves as a powerful reminder that the inclusion of women with disabilities within the gender movement and beyond is essential. It calls for a comprehensive approach to gender equality that recognizes and addresses the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities. The inclusion of women with disabilities is not just a matter of justice but a necessity for achieving true gender equality. This International Women's Day, let us commit to raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by women with disabilities and ensuring their voices are heard. By doing so, we can create a world where every woman, regardless of her abilities, can live with dignity and opportunity.

International Women's Day is an opportunity to empower women and elevate their voices. Gender equality is not just a women's issue but a human rights issue. Promoting policies that ensure equal opportunities, creating safe and accessible spaces, and challenging societal norms that perpetuate inequality are essential steps towards a more inclusive world. As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us recognize the achievements of women with and without disabilities and reflect on the work that still needs to be done. Each of us can contribute to advancing gender equality by supporting women's initiatives, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for inclusive policies.

This year, International Women's Day serves as a powerful reminder of the progress we've made and the journey ahead, celebrating women's achievements and advocating for their rights to honor their contributions, pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable world, and remind us of our collective responsibility to create an inclusive world where every woman, including those with disabilities, can thrive by elevating their voices, breaking barriers, and empowering all women to reach their full potential.

According to the theme of this year, together, we can break barriers and build an inclusive world where every woman, regardless of age, race, nationality, or disability, can thrive and reach her full potential.

International Zero Discrimination Day

 

International Zero Discrimination Day

Observed annually on March 1st, the United Nations' Zero Discrimination Day serves as a powerful and poignant reminder of the fundamental human right to live a life free from prejudice, stigma, and marginalization. This day underscores the urgent and ongoing need to combat all forms of discrimination, whether based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, or any other status. As we approach Zero Discrimination Day 2025, the call for a more equitable and inclusive world resonates even more strongly. It's crucial to delve deeper into the multifaceted challenges faced by marginalized communities, particularly focusing on the often-overlooked experiences of South Asians with disabilities. Their experiences represent a complex intersection of discrimination, demanding focused attention and concerted action.

The Multifaceted Context of Disability

Disability is not a monolithic concept. It encompasses a wide spectrum of physical, sensory, intellectual, cognitive, and mental impairments, some visible and others invisible. It is an integral and natural part of the human experience, affecting individuals across all demographics and socioeconomic backgrounds because of barriers. Despite its prevalence, persons with disabilities often encounter significant, systemic barriers that impede their full participation and inclusion in society. These barriers are not simply physical; they are often deeply rooted in societal attitudes, cultural norms, and systemic inequalities. They can manifest as inaccessible infrastructure, discriminatory practices, various heartening terminologies, limited access to quality education and healthcare, and pervasive social stigma.

South Asians with Disabilities

South Asians with disabilities often face a double, sometimes even triple, burden of discrimination. They are marginalized not only as members of the disability community but also as individuals belonging to an ethnic minority group or sexual identity. Within their own communities, they may encounter cultural stigma, misconceptions surrounding the causes of disability, and even outright rejection. Disability may be viewed through a lens of shame, superstition, or as a punishment for past transgressions, leading to isolation and a lack of support for both the individual and their family. Furthermore, they often experience discrimination in the broader society due to their ethnicity, language, religious beliefs, or cultural practices. This intersectional discrimination, where multiple forms of prejudice converge, creates a complex web of disadvantage, leading to profound social exclusion, economic hardship, limited access to essential services, and diminished opportunities for personal growth and development.

The challenges faced by South Asians with disabilities are often exacerbated by poverty, lack of access to assistive technologies, limited availability of rehabilitation services, and inadequate representation in decision-making processes. These factors contribute to a cycle of marginalization, making it difficult for individuals to overcome the barriers they face and realize their full potential. The lack of disaggregated data on disability within South Asian communities further complicates the issue, making it difficult to accurately assess the prevalence of disability and develop targeted interventions.

Unraveling the Roots of Disability Discrimination

Disability discrimination is a complex phenomenon with roots in a variety of interconnected factors, including:

• Lack of Awareness and Understanding: A fundamental cause of discrimination is the widespread lack of accurate information and understanding about disability. Misconceptions, stereotypes, and fear often fuel prejudice and negative attitudes. Many people are simply unaware of the diverse range of disabilities and the challenges faced by individuals living with them.
• Cultural Stigma and Misconceptions: In some cultures, disability is shrouded in stigma and viewed through a lens of shame or misfortune. This can lead to discrimination and exclusion of individuals with disabilities, preventing them from accessing support and resources.
• Fear and Discomfort: Some individuals may feel uncomfortable or even fearful around people with disabilities due to a lack of familiarity or understanding. This discomfort can lead to avoidance, exclusion, and discriminatory behavior.
• Systemic Barriers: Beyond individual attitudes, systemic, policy and institutional barriers play a significant role in perpetuating disability discrimination. These barriers can include inaccessible infrastructure, discriminatory hiring practices, limited access to education and healthcare, and a lack of representation in decision-making bodies.
• Socioeconomic Condition: Poverty and socioeconomic disadvantage can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, limiting their access to resources, opportunities, and support.

Solutions for Disability Discrimination

Combating disability discrimination requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach, involving individuals, communities, governments, and organizations working together. Key strategies include:

• Raising Awareness and Education: Public awareness campaigns and educational programs are essential for challenging stereotypes, dispelling misconceptions, and promoting a more inclusive understanding of disability. These initiatives should target schools, workplaces, communities, and the media.
• Universal Design: Ensuring that physical and digital environments are accessible to persons with disabilities is crucial for their full participation in society. This includes accessible buildings, transportation, websites, and assistive technologies. The principles of universal design, which aim to create environments that are usable by everyone to the greatest extent possible, should be incorporated into all aspects of design and planning.
• Implementation of Legal Framework: Robust legal frameworks that protect the rights of persons with disabilities are essential for ensuring equality and justice. These laws should prohibit discrimination in all areas of life, including employment, education, healthcare, and housing. Effective enforcement mechanisms are crucial for ensuring that these laws are implemented and that individuals with disabilities have access to redressal mechanisms.
• Empowerment: Supporting persons with disabilities to advocate for their rights, participate fully in their communities, and contribute their talents and skills is vital for promoting inclusion. This includes providing access to education, training, employment opportunities, and leadership development programs.
• Inclusive Education: Inclusive education, where students with and without disabilities learn together in the same classrooms, is essential for fostering understanding, breaking down stereotypes, and creating more inclusive classrooms.
• Support Services: Access to quality rehabilitation services, assistive technologies, and support services is crucial for enabling individuals with disabilities to live independent and fulfilling lives.
• Disability Data: Collecting disaggregated data on disability within South Asian communities is essential for understanding the specific challenges faced by this population and developing targeted interventions. Further research is needed to explore the cultural and social factors that contribute to disability discrimination in these communities.
• Partnerships: Addressing disability discrimination requires collaboration and partnerships between governments, NGOs, community organizations, and individuals with disabilities. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

On Zero Discrimination Day 2025, let us not only reaffirm our commitment to building a world free from discrimination but also amplify the voices of South Asians with disabilities. Let us move beyond mere tolerance and embrace a culture of inclusion, where everyone, regardless of their abilities or background, can live a life of dignity, respect, and opportunity. By working together to dismantle barriers, challenge prejudices, and promote inclusion, we can create a more just and equitable society for all. This requires a sustained effort, a commitment to listening to and learning from the experiences of marginalized communities, and a willingness to challenge our own biases and assumptions. Only then can we truly achieve a world where zero discrimination is a reality, not just an aspiration.

دالوں کا عالمی دن

 

دالوں کا عالمی دن

دنیا کے دوسرے خطوں کے مقابلے میں برصغیر میں دالوں کا سب سے زیادہ استعمال کیا جاتا ہے۔ دال کو اکثر غریب شخص کی خوارک سمجھا جاتا رہا ہے۔ تاریخی لحاظ سےدالوں کا ذکر ہندوؤں کی ایک مقدس وید میں بھی ملتا ہے۔ اردو ادب میں دالون پر شاعری بھی کی گئی ہے جیساکہ

   

ایک لڑکی بگھارتی ہے دال

دال کرتی ہے عرض یوں احوال

(اسماعیل میرٹھی)

ٹپکے اُن پر رال برابر

گھر کی مُرغی دال پرابر

(شفیق خلش)

مونگ چھاتی پہ جو دلتے ہیں کسی کی دیکھنا

جوتیوں میں دال ان کی اے ظفرؔ بٹ جائے گی

(بہادر شاہ ظفر)

اسکے علاوہ بہت سے محاورے بھی مشہور ہیں جیساکہ دال میں کالا، دال نہ گلنا، یہ منہ اور مسور کی دال، آٹے دال کا بھاؤ معلوم ہونا  یا پھر سندھیوں میں کہتے ہیں منھہ میں مونگ وغیرہ۔ ہمارے ہاں دال کی کئی ڈشز بھی ہیں، کچھڑی ہو یا، دال چاول یا دال چنا، چنے کی دال کا حلوہ، بھُنی دال، کڑاہی دال،  سبز مونگ کی دال، شامی کباب، حلیم، یا مسور کی دال کا شوربہ اور کئی ڈشز ہیں جو دال ملا کر بنتی ہیں، دال پالک، دال قیمہ، انڈا چنے کی دال، دال گوشت، وغیرہ۔ ایک رپورٹ کے مطابق امریکہ کے دارالحکومت واشنگٹن کے پُلمین کے علاقے میں دالوں کا ایک تہوار بھی ہوتا ہے۔ نیشنل لینٹل فسٹیول نامی اس تہوار کا آغاز سنہ 1989 میں ہوا تھا اور اس میں 25 ہزار سے زیادہ لوگ شرکت کرتے ہیں اور لوگ یہاں اپنے اپنے انداز میں دالیں پکانے کا مظاہرہ بھی کرتے ہیں۔

 دالوں نے ہمیشہ اپنا لوہا منوایا ہے اپنی غذائیت اور ذئقہ کے طفیل بوڑھوں اور بچٌوں میں یکساں مقبول رہی ہیں۔ یہ دالوں کا ہی کمال ہے کہ ہم صرف دو اجناس کو استعمال کر کے دنیا کے سادہ ترین کھانے جھٹ پٹ تیار کر لیتے ہیں، دال چاول یا دال روٹی، آپ کی مرضی جو کھائیں۔ ہمارے ہاں 

 مہمانوں کو دال پیش ہی نہیں کی جاتی  اور اگر گوشت والے پکوانوں کی بجائے دال پیش کرنا پڑ جائے تو لوگ ہچکچاتے تھے۔  دال کو لوگ غم کی علامت بھی سمجھتے ہیں اور کچھ لوگ جمع یا جمع کی رات کو دال پکانے سے گریز کرتے ہیں۔ اب تو دالوں کا علامی دن منایا جاتا ہے۔ 

ہر سال 10 فروری کو دنیا بھر میں عالمی یوم دال منایا جاتا ہے، جس کا آغاز 2013 میں اقوام متحدہ نے خوراک کی عدم تحفظ، غذائی قلت، اور موسمیاتی تبدیلیوں جیسے چیلنجز سے نمٹنے کے لیے کیا۔ دس فیبروری دالوں کا عالمی دن کی بنیاد 2016  میں ڈالی گئی 

 جب کے  اقوام متحدہ نے دالوں کو پائیدار ترقی کے اہداف ایس جی ڈی کے حصول کا اہم ذریعہ قرار دیا ہے۔  فوڈ اینڈ ایگریکلچر آرگنائزیشن

 کی قیادت میں چلائی گئی بھوک کے خلاف جنگ کی مہم نے دالوں کی اہمیت کو اجاگر کیا-  سابق ایف اے او ڈائریکٹر جوزے گرازیانو دا سلوا  کے الفاظ میں: *"دالوں کی طاقت ان کے سائز میں نہیں، بلکہ ہماری دنیا کو بدلنے کی صلاحیت میں ہے۔  دالیں  سستی غذائیت سے بھرپور کھانے اور پروٹین کا ذریعہ ہیں۔  یہ دن ہمیں یاد دلاتا ہے کہ دالوں جیسے چنے، مسور، مونگ، اور مٹر میں وہ صلاحیت ہے جو نہ صرف غذائی قلت دور کرسکتی ہے بلکہ پائیدار زراعت کو بھی فروغ دے سکتی ہے۔  

دالوں کے عالمی منظرنامے میں پاکستان ایک منفرد مقام رکھتا ہے۔ چنے اور مسور جیسی فصلیں کاشت کرنے کے باوجود، ملک اپنی ضرورت کا 50% سے زائد دال درآمد کرتا ہے۔ یہ تضاد کیوں؟  

1.  محدود پیداوار: 24 کروڑ کی آبادی کے لیے سالانہ 500,000 میٹرک ٹن دالیں درآمد کی جاتی ہیں جن کی لاگت 1.2 ارب ڈالرہیں۔  

2. پانی کے بحران: چاول اور گندم جیسی فصلیں 43% زیادہ پانی استعمال کرتی ہیں، جبکہ دالیں کم پانی اور کم کھاد پر پنپ سکتی ہیں۔    

4. غذائی قلت: پاکستان میں 5 سال سے کم عمر کے 40% بچے کم غذائیت کا شکار ہوتے ہیں، جبکہ دالیں آئرن، زنک اور پروٹین کا سستا ذریعہ ہیں۔  

پاکستان کے لیے دالوں کی پیداوار بڑھانا محض معاشی مسئلہ نہیں بلکہ قومی سلامتی کا معاملہ ہے۔ اس کے لیے درکار اقدامات کرنے ہونگے جیساکہ 

خشک سالی برداشت کرنے والی اقسام (جیسے "نیاب-2016" چنا) کو متعارف کروانا،  

سبسڈیز کا صحیح استعمال،  

 کسانوں کو تربیت دینا 

 کولڈ اسٹوریج یونٹس قائم کرنا   

     

 پاکستان کو چاہیے کہ

 دالوں کی برآمدات بڑھانے کے لیے معاہدے کریں۔  

زرعی تحقیق کے اداروں (جیسے  کو فنڈز دیں۔  

صارفین کو سستی دالوں تک رسائی یقینی بنائیں۔  

 دالوں کا عالمی دن صرف ایک علامت نہیں، بلکہ ہمیں عملی اقدامات کی ترغیب دیتا ہے۔ ہر شہری کو چاہیے کہ اپنی خوراک میں دالوں کو شامل کرے، کسانوں کو سپورٹ کرے، اور پائیدار مستقبل کی بنیاد رکھے۔ یہ عاجز دانے ہی ہماری نسلوں کو بھوک اور موسمیاتی تباہی سے بچا سکتے ہیں۔

International Day Female Circumcision

 

International Day Female Circumcision

Each year, the United Nations Observes International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, 6 February. In 2012, the UN General Assembly designated February 6th as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, with the aim to amplify and direct the efforts on the elimination of this practice. 2025 Theme is "Step up the Pace; Strengthening Alliances and Building Movements to End FGM"

https://www.un.org/en/observances/female-genital-mutilation-day

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a deeply harmful practice that affects women and girls worldwide, including in Pakistan. The impact on women and girls with disabilities, particularly those with intellectual disabilities, is even more severe due to their increased vulnerability and the lack of awareness and resources to protect them.

In Pakistan, FGM is practiced in certain communities, such as the Dawoodi Bohra and Sheedi communities, often under the guise of cultural and religious traditions. The practice is carried out in secrecy, making it difficult to gather accurate data and raise awareness about its prevalence and impact.

Women and girls with intellectual disabilities are particularly at risk because they are not fully understood by the parents or family. The stigma and discrimination faced by the families of women and girls with disabilities in Pakistan can further exacerbate their vulnerability and motivation to incline for Genital Mutilation.

The United Nations and various organizations are working to eliminate FGM and protect the rights of women and girls with disabilities. However, there is still a long way to go in terms of raising awareness, collecting data, and implementing policies to protect these vulnerable groups.

It's crucial to continue advocating for the rights and protection of women and girls with disabilities, ensuring they may be protected from such harmful practices.

Here is video from UN.

**Content Warning: This post contains discussions of disability rights and assitive technologies. Reader discretion is advised.**

The Devastating Impact of USAID Funding Stoppage on Persons with Disabilities Worldwide

 

The Devastating Impact of USAID Funding Stoppage on Persons with Disabilities Worldwide

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) plays a critical role in supporting development and humanitarian assistance programs globally. A critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of this work is its impact on the lives of persons with disabilities. The recent, near-total USAID programs worldwide has created significant challenges and, in many cases, outright halted programs designed to empower and support persons with disabilities, with potentially devastating consequences for this vulnerable population. This article explores the far-reaching ramifications of this stoppage, highlighting the urgent need for a renewed commitment to disability inclusion within USAID's global development agenda, should programming resume.

Persons with disabilities, estimated to comprise 15% of the global population, face disproportionate challenges in accessing essential services like education, healthcare, and employment. They are also more likely to experience poverty, social exclusion, and violence. USAID has historically played a vital role in addressing these disparities by funding programs specifically designed to promote disability inclusion. These programs have supported a range of critical activities, including:

• Accessibility improvements: Funding has facilitated the construction of accessible infrastructure, such as ramps, accessible toilets, and audio-visual aids, making public spaces and services more inclusive for persons with disabilities.
•  Inclusive education: USAID has supported the training of teachers on inclusive education practices, enabling them to effectively teach students with disabilities in mainstream classrooms. This fosters inclusion and breaks down barriers to learning.
•  Assistive technology: Funding has provided persons with disabilities with access to essential assistive technologies, such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, and visual aids, enabling them to participate more fully in their communities.
• Economic empowerment: USAID programs have supported vocational training and entrepreneurship opportunities for persons with disabilities, empowering them to achieve economic independence and contribute to their societies.
• Advocacy and capacity building: USAID has supported organizations of persons with disabilities, strengthening their capacity to advocate for their rights and participate in policy-making processes.

The near-total stoppage of USAID programs has placed these vital programs at immediate and severe risk. The cessation of funding, coupled with the halting of new initiatives, has forced many organizations working on disability inclusion to drastically scale back their operations or shut down entirely. This has had a direct and immediate impact on the lives of persons with disabilities, severely limiting their access to essential services and opportunities.

The consequences of this funding stoppage are far-reaching and deeply concerning:

•  Increased marginalization: Reduced access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities further marginalizes persons with disabilities, exacerbating existing inequalities and hindering their full participation in society.
•  Exacerbated poverty: Limited economic opportunities push persons with disabilities and their families deeper into poverty, creating a cycle of disadvantage that is difficult to break.
• Heightened vulnerability: Persons with disabilities are already at a higher risk of experiencing violence and abuse. The loss of support services further increases their vulnerability.
•  Undermining progress: The significant progress made in recent years towards disability inclusion is being dramatically undermined, threatening to reverse years of hard-won gains.
• Erosion of trust: This stoppage erodes trust between the US government and disability communities worldwide, damaging relationships and hindering future collaboration.

The argument for prioritizing disability inclusion in development assistance is not just a matter of charity; it is a matter of human rights and sustainable development. Including persons with disabilities in all aspects of society is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By excluding persons with disabilities, we are not only denying them their fundamental rights but also hindering progress towards a more inclusive and equitable world.

It is imperative that USAID, should programming resume, reverse this harmful stoppage and reaffirm its commitment to disability inclusion. This requires:

•  Increased funding: Allocating adequate resources to programs specifically designed to support persons with disabilities.
• Meaningful consultation: Engaging with organizations of persons with disabilities in the design and implementation of development programs.
• Capacity building: Strengthening the capacity of local organizations to implement effective disability-inclusive programs.
•  Data collection: Improving data collection on disability to better understand the needs of persons with disabilities and track progress.
• Policy coherence: Ensuring that all USAID policies and programs are aligned with the principles of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

The United States has long been a global leader in promoting human rights and development. By prioritizing disability inclusion within its development assistance programs, should they resume, USAID can demonstrate its commitment to these values and empower persons with disabilities to live full and productive lives. Failing to do so would be a grave injustice, with far-reaching consequences for millions of people around the world. The time for action is now. We must ensure that persons with disabilities are not left behind in the pursuit of a more just and equitable world.

 

Different and Able is not Differently Abled

Language is a powerful tool that shapes perceptions and can either promote inclusivity or perpetuate misconceptions. When it comes to discussing disabilities, the terms we use matter significantly. One term that has been widely adopted is "differently abled." While it was initially coined with good intentions, its use has been a topic of debate, with arguments suggesting it may inadvertently undermine the very inclusivity it aims to promote. Additionally, there is often confusion between the terms "differently abled" and "different & able." This article explores the wrong use of "differently abled" and clarifies the distinctions between the two phrases.

The Evolution of Disability Terminology

Historically, language used to describe individuals with disabilities has evolved significantly. Terms like "handicapped" and "crippled" were once commonplace, but they have since been recognized as outdated and offensive. As society has become more aware of the importance of respectful language, terms like "disabled" and "person with a disability" have gained prominence. The shift towards person-first language, which emphasizes the individual rather than the disability, has been a crucial step in promoting dignity and respect.

The Emergence of "Differently Abled"

"Differently abled" emerged as a term intended to offer a more positive and empowering perspective on disability. It suggests that individuals with disabilities possess unique abilities and strengths that set them apart. While the intention behind this term was to reduce stigma and highlight the diverse capabilities of people with disabilities, it has faced criticism for several reasons:

1. Euphemism and Avoidance: Critics argue that "differently abled" can be seen as a euphemism that avoids addressing the reality of disability. By focusing on differences rather than the specific challenges individuals face, the term can obscure the need for accommodations and support.

2. Overemphasis on Abilities: The term places a heavy emphasis on abilities, which can inadvertently downplay the genuine difficulties and barriers that people with disabilities encounter. This can lead to unrealistic expectations and a lack of understanding of their lived experiences.

3. **Minimizing the Disability Experience**: Some individuals with disabilities feel that "differently abled" minimizes their experiences by implying that they are merely different, rather than acknowledging the societal and structural barriers they face. This can detract from the advocacy efforts aimed at achieving equality and accessibility.

The Argument for Accurate Terminology

Using accurate and respectful terminology is essential for fostering a more inclusive society. Advocates for disability rights emphasize the importance of using terms that accurately reflect the experiences and identities of individuals with disabilities. "Disabled" and "person with a disability" are widely accepted terms that acknowledge the reality of disability while prioritizing the individual.

Distinguishing Between "Differently Abled" and "Different & Able"

The phrase "different & able" is often used interchangeably with "differently abled," but there are subtle yet important distinctions between the two:

1. Intent and Emphasis:

   - Differently Abled: This term emphasizes the idea of possessing different abilities. It seeks to highlight the unique strengths and talents of individuals with disabilities, often with the intention of promoting a positive perspective.

   - Different & Able: This phrase acknowledges both the differences and abilities of individuals. It recognizes that while individuals with disabilities may have unique abilities, they also face challenges that require accommodations and support.

2. Perception and Reception:

   - Differently Abled: As mentioned earlier, "differently abled" can sometimes be perceived as a euphemism that avoids addressing the reality of disability. It may be seen as an attempt to sugarcoat or downplay the challenges that individuals face.

   - Different & Able: This phrase strikes a balance between acknowledging differences and emphasizing abilities. It is generally perceived as more neutral and less likely to be interpreted as avoiding the topic of disability.

3. Impact on Advocacy:

   - Differently Abled: The use of this term can inadvertently shift the focus away from the need for systemic changes and accessibility. By emphasizing abilities, it may undermine efforts to advocate for policies and practices that address barriers.

   - Different & Able: This phrase allows for a more comprehensive understanding of disability. It acknowledges the need for accommodations and support while also recognizing the unique strengths of individuals.

Moving Towards Inclusive Language

Promoting inclusivity requires a nuanced understanding of language and its impact. Here are some guidelines for using respectful and inclusive language when discussing disabilities:

1. Listen to the Community: The best way to ensure respectful language use is to listen to individuals with disabilities and the disability advocacy community. Their perspectives and preferences should guide the language choices we make.

2. Use Person-First Language: Person-first language, such as "person with a disability," prioritizes the individual rather than defining them by their disability. It emphasizes their identity and humanity.

3. Avoid Euphemisms: While terms like "differently abled" may be well-intentioned, it is important to avoid euphemisms that obscure the reality of disability. Using accurate terminology fosters a more honest and respectful conversation.

4. Acknowledge Barriers: Recognize the societal and structural barriers that individuals with disabilities face. Language should reflect the need for accommodations, accessibility, and systemic change.

5. Empowerment Through Language: Language has the power to empower and uplift. Use terms that honor the experiences and identities of individuals with disabilities, and avoid language that perpetuates stereotypes or diminishes their experiences.

Language is a dynamic and evolving tool that shapes our understanding of the world and the people in it. When it comes to discussing disabilities, it is crucial to use terminology that respects the experiences and identities of individuals. While "differently abled" was introduced with positive intentions, its use can sometimes obscure the realities of disability and the need for systemic change. Understanding the distinctions between "differently abled" and "different & able" helps us navigate the complexities of language and promotes a more inclusive and respectful conversation. By listening to the disability community and prioritizing accurate and empowering language, we can contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society for all.