Ann Rose Davie and Ginny Thornburgh
National Organization on Disability
1992
How Shall We Begin?
Many of us have disabilities which are visible. Others have disabilities which are invisible. Some disabilities are physical or sensory, and others are intellectual or psychological. Some disabilities are temporary, although severely limiting while present. Others are permanent, but need not be fully limiting.
Just as every family has at least one person who requires extra support and understanding, in every congregation there are already people who have been accommodated. Adjustments have been made for Mrs. Green, who has cataracts; for Mr. Rosenfeld, who has a heart condition; or for the Smiths, whose son was in a serious diving accident.
This Is a Great Start!
Next look around for other members who may have been overlooked. They may be attempting to hide their problems by infrequent attendance or by quietly enduring discomfort. Be assured that they are paying a great price, psychologically, and perhaps spiritually.
Afirming Language
People throughout the country are becoming aware that to live with a disability should mean to live in a supportive community, not hidden away in painful isolation. Because of this, they are also changing their language to show respect for persons with disabilities rather than labeling them like objects. Appropriate language and terminology is in evolution.
"Peoplefirst Language" refers to the principle that the person is primary, the disability secondary. Language should afirm rather than diminish. Listen to the afirmation in this announcement: "Worshippers with disabilities may request assistive devices," rather than "Disabled worshippers may request assistive devices."
Note, too, that a person "uses a wheelchair," just as another person "uses" legs. The person is not "wheelchair bound" nor "con½ned to wheelchair."
The following defined words are frequently misused:
Disability: A permanent physical, sensory or intellectual impairment that substantially limits one or more of a person’s major life activities, including reading, writing and other aspects of education; holding a job; and managing various essential functions of life such as dressing, bathing and eating.
Handicap: A barrier society places on the person with a disability.
Peoplefirst Language
Thus, one could say, "The stairs in that building will be a handicap for John, who uses a wheelchair," but not "John is handicapped and can’t use the stairs." Certain words and phrases are no longer acceptable. Among these are "crippled," "crazy," "retard," "deaf and dumb," "wheelchair bound," "homebound," "shut-ins," "victim," "invalid," and any categorization beginning with the word "the," such as "the disabled," "the blind," "the deaf" or "the mentally retarded."
Note: People with disabilities should acknowledge sincere efforts to change old language habits. "Politically correct" disability language is often presented in an overly oppressive way. As a result, people without disabilities, but with good intentions, may decide that trying to a firm and include people with disabilities isn’t worth the effort.
Task Force on Disability Issues
For any congregation, denominational group, religious college or seminary to make long-lasting, appropriate changes, a planning structure will be needed. Enlist a group of committed people, including those with disabilities, and create a Task Force on Disability Issues.
Select participants carefully!
• Give the Task Force status by asking the pastor, rabbi or priest to sign a letter inviting members to serve.
• Get the backing of the congregational governing board.
• Invite, as Task Force members, people who have:
• various types of disabilities
• a family member with a disability
• responsibility to plan and lead
worship
• in¾uence in making policy
• responsibility for managing the building
• skills in carpentry, contracting or architecture
• responsibility for educational
curricula, especially special education skills
• experience in fundraising
• responsibility for community outreach
• skills in writing and communication.
Overview of Task Force
Responsibilities
Each meeting and activity planned by the Task Force will broaden the understanding of the participants who in¾uence others in the congregation. Task Force members will become bolder about taking action. After a time, additional people with disabilities will become known to the Task Force.
Possible Agenda Items for the First Task Force Meeting
• Divide into small subgroups so individuals have ample opportunity to exchange ideas.
• Discuss experiences within the congregation that may be creating barriers for people with disabilities and for their families.
• Take time to examine the moral dilemma present when a congregation excludes or does not seek out those with disabilities. Re¾ect on such questions as "What is it to be human?" "What is God’s role in suffering?" "What binds people together in community?"
• Make lists of access problems encountered by someone with physical or sensory disabilities who is trying to enter or use the building.
Additional Agenda Items
for the Task Force
• Consider policies and practices which could be viewed as discouraging to someone with a disability. What about worship, social and educational activities, and outreach?
• Divide the list of barriers and problems by type.
• Refer recommendations to the appropriate congregational authority such as the session, council, vestry, deacons, trustees or building committee.
• Strategize about fundraising. Ideas should range from urging the high school youth group to sponsor a needed program, to inviting families to contribute money for a ramp or enhanced sound system in honor or in memory of a family member.
Long-range Considerations for the Task Force
The Task Force will need both short-term and long-range strategies. Making changes at one point in time does not necessarily answer the need forever. Devices get broken, well-intended adjustments may prove to be inadequate, and new requests are made that are valid.
The Task Force can be an informed and pro-active support group, known in the congregation for its ability to make changes on behalf of children and adults with disabilities. Its very presence will serve to assure members and visitors who seek an accepting atmosphere for worship, education and service.