Just out of curiosity, what are some typical stereotypes that you hear about people with disabilities?
DO-IT Ambassador: The #1 stereotype I’ve come head-to-head with is people thinking I’m mentally challenged just because I am physically disabled. Sometimes they talk down to me. I hate this, but if I’m not going to see them again, or not see them daily, I quietly let it pass. This stereotype is so demeaning. When I was in middle school and high school I got very upset about this. Disabled people often have to prove themselves worthy of respect, and that’s not fair. We have to work harder at everything else—why should we have to work harder at getting the respect we need and deserve? Often, this stereotype leads to alienation and isolation; then it can cause depression… DO-IT Scholar: I have also had to face the stereotype of being mentally challenged because of my physical disability. But for me, I have also had to endure people calling me a “faker” because I can walk for short distances. I had to endure that through most of high school. DO-IT Ambassador: Yes, I get the developmental
