Jerry Lewis was never a hero to the disabled community [View all]

[mentalsolstice]

Jerry Lewis was no hero to persons with disabilities (PWDs) or to people who worked to expand their rights. He was the antithesis to the needs of PWDs. His "pity" telethons never put a positive light on medical and technological advances that could improve opportunities for PWDs to function and contribute to society.

As long as PWDs are looked on with pity or even put up on pedestals just simply because we made accomplishments despite our disabilities, we'll never overcome the societal obstacles other minorities have.

I remember growing up in the 60s & 70s in my family, the thought wasn't that black people were bad, they were just unfortunate because of the color of their skin, and the same with LGBTQ.

However, PWDs will always suffer, eyes will be averted, people will say "there go I, but for the grace of the Lord." And posts here at DU about PWDs will continue to sink like a rock. Because, let's face it most of you never want to walk in those shoes.

I hope Mr. Lewis rests in peace, and my thoughts are with his family.