I just read through today’s copy of the New York Times but I’m feeling none of that pessimism and negativity that I usually feel about my fellow Americans. In fact, I’m feeling a might chipper about living on this side of the Atlantic, a bit palpably relieve to be an American — and all because I stumbled across this story about some narrow-minded Brits. My how advanced we Americans have become. How open-minded we are. How 21st century.
And I’m suddenly feeling nostalgic and fuzzy about political correctness. Thank goodness for the PC police…bless their finger wagging souls.
Okay. I should let you in on the story. You can either read about it or pull the same information from a video.
Disabled Host of Kids Show Draws Criticism
So would this happen in the United States? Can you imagine a network here receiving this many complaints? If we’re different on this side of the drink, is it because we’re beyond this issue or is it because we’ve learned NOT to discuss it, that it would be crass or improper to raise this as an issue?
I’m struck by a couple of things. First, I’m amazed that it’s legal to have children before we know what to say to them when they encounter a human being with only one hand. I’ve thought about the merits of sterilization for people who believe it’s fine for children to free base coke or chase the dragon, or even for adults who do not believe in child safety seats. But now along comes these people. Obviously these parents have learned to write (since their complaints seem to take the form of the written word), so they didn’t suddenly emerge from a cave where they’ve been living. But to need so much rudimentary parenting advice is really beyond the pale.
Second, I’m struck by how it is that any of us would be uncomfortable around someone with only one hand. I understand that most people have two hands and that we all experience surprise at things that are unnatural or abnormal for us. But I’m thinking now about how strange it is that we so quickly establish standards of normalcy and walk through the world with those standards lighting our paths. Why do we do that?
So am I alone on this issue? Granted they only receive twenty-five complaints, but since the story broke they have received even more complaints — I guess people who thought themselves rude if they spoke up. Keep in mind that the vast majority of Brits think the complainers are idiots, dolts, and blockheads.
Where do you think Americans would stand on this issue?
I am horrified with the BBC for even responding to the complaints about Cerrie Burnell. There are children in the world with the same “disability,” and to announce that many do not think that the disabled should be allowed in public is ludicrous.
I went to elementary school with a child who had one arm. The child was incredibly capable and did not even require extra services. Had any parents the audacity to complain about the child’s presence, they would have been ostracized. Just because someone is on television does not mean that he or she is not a real person, complete with feelings, or that he or she does not represent a portion of the population.
What is scary about a woman with one arm, anyway? She was just born different from most people, but everyone is different. Bobby has brown hair. Cindy has red hair. Erin is in a wheelchair. Paul has diabetes. The amazing thing about Cerrie Burnell is that she shows that just because you’re different does not mean that you cannot succeed and be happy.
The father who complained that he had to teach his child about disabilities as a result of the television program missed the moral to his own story: his child was better off for it. The world is a diverse place, and we cannot pretend that un-pretty things do not exist. There is no Santa Clause, and we can hold off on telling our kids that until it is necessary. Nobody gets hurt. But protecting children (and everyone else) by keeping them ignorant to the world will only make it worse when they finally meet reality.
Our children will be exposed to everything eventually, whether we talk to them or not. Children should be taught about the big things in life so that they do not make the big mistakes. Postponing the birds and the bees talk because it is uncomfortable, for example, clearly does not mean that they will not learn when they to get pregnant at sixteen. Not all overweight women are pregnant, and your two year old should know not to ask the woman on the elevator.
Things like religion and sexuality are becoming even more relevant in our society, at a younger age. Sue comes home to ask their parents why Timmy has two mommies, and she only has one. There has only been one children’s television program (of note) that has dealt with such issues, Postcards from Buster, and the Education Secretary of the United States and 150,000 emails resulted in censorship. Yes, things like this do happen in our country. While parents may disagree about the merits homosexuality, they should agree that the children raised by gays should be treated well and not ostracized. Programs like Postcards from Buster introduce issues like disabilities, life on an army base, and different religions to children in a apolitical and innocent way. There should be more of them.
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I don’t think most Americans would have a similar reaction to something like this, although I feel that there are narrow-minded people everywhere in the world so it might happen here as well to some degree. Perhaps some countries might be more narrow-minded than others, but I feel that America and Britain both would be generally more open to issues such as this. As is evident by less than 30 complaints, it is a very tiny subset of the population that is complaining about the show. It is likely though that there would be an equal amount of second-looks in America and maybe even parents that do not let their children view the show. I am not sure if people would outright complain though because of our huge emphasis on acceptance and political correctness.
My parent’s good friends from Britain have visited my house several times and shared their views on things. Based on this small interaction, it does seem that at least these people were less sticklers for political correctness. I remember specifically them telling us that they view interracial adoption as unacceptable. They felt that white people are not able to properly raise a black child, and that black children should be with their “own kind”. This statement kind of startled me. Maybe this is incorrect, but I have always felt that American’s general view of Europeans is that they are much more open to new ideas and people. Based on my small interactions with British people they seem to be some of the most prejudiced around. As our country is seen as a melting pot, they do not want to be, and admit it. They take pride in their particular culture and are not interested in incorporating others views. This is especially evident in Germany. They label immigrants differently than those of German heritage, whereas in the United States you are a citizen if you are born here. These immigrants do not have the same rights as Germans, and to me this seems to be perpetuating an under class of those with a “less superior” race.
Nonetheless we as Americans view Europeans as very open. I think this is largely because of their openness to sex, and so we think that because of this openness they are generally liberal to other topics as well. Our country is often viewed as “prude” compared to Europeans. Another reason for our perceived view of Europeans is because many Americans that do visit these places go to metropolitan epicenters like London and France where all types of people and ideas are accepted—exactly like New York City and Chicago. If we compare these places to rural areas outside of these cities there might be a different picture seen. This is true in both Europe and America. So, an American visiting these places in Europe would probably see these cities and generally view the people as accepting.
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This article came as a total shock to me. Other countries are quick to call us rude and harsh Americans. Come to find out that we were being the nicer of the countries for a change.
Issues dealing with television networks have happened in the past where complaints have been made about actors on shows. I feel that when other races besides white were not included in American television shows colored people were getting upset. They felt they had nothing to relate to with an all white cast. After getting the complaints the networks made their cast more diverse. Disabled people face discrimination everyday. Often times many people tend to forget that disabled people fit into the category of a minority. The complaints the network is getting about disabled people are different from the ones about race from the past in America. Instead people are complaining against diversifying television and targeting disabled people. When it comes to this issue I do not think that Americans would show as much concern as the ignorant people in Britain are doing.
I feel that this children’s television show makes children aware to differences in the world. It allows them to be able to be exposed to different types of people and allows them to ask their parents about the situation. These British parents should not complain because they do not know what to tell their children. They should instead take it as an opportunity to talk about different people in the world. It seems like they want all people that look like them to only entertain their children. That does not seem right. Parents like this kill me because they try to shelter their children from the real world. This situation kind of reminds me of someone in the pre-encounter stage. If these British children never experience different cultures or people then they will grow older and continue to be in the same stage. I believe that this is where discrimination gets started. Because a person at a young age never gets exposed to something different then themselves they are forced to judge others.
If I was to ever have children I believe I would never not allow them to know a different groups of people. I would not look for a school with uniform children but instead a school where they would be able to experience different kinds of children. As a child my parents were able to give me that kind of life and I would want my kids to ask me questions about different people in the world. I would never explain to them that this is right way to be or this is the normal way to look. Once again the question comes up….. what is normal?
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Well the first thing I have to say is that I did not notice that this lady was handicapped and missing her right hand until a little less than two minutes into the video. They might have made a concerted effort to kind of down play it for the child’s program similar to when television shows cover up women’s stomachs in their early stages of pregnancy if it does not fit the storyline. Now more on to some of the issues brought up in Sam’s blog; I do not necessarily believe that we as citizens of the United States are beyond this issue by any means because there will always some sort of ignorance in this country dealing with the unknown or “non normal”. What is probably more likely is that this topic has become taboo and so it really is not discussed openly, especially in the normally politically correct media outlets. They would most certainly not bring these seemingly malicious and mal thought letters to the forefront of broadcast. If anything the casting director of the child’s show would probably have not cast a very visibly handicapped person to avoid any potential issues and to showcase the “ideals” that typically limit those who get into television.
I do get really surprised when I see how truly cruel and ignorant some people can become when faced with something out of the norm. I guess it is important to never underestimate some people’s stupidity. I agree with Sam and can not really understand the reason for being uncomfortable around someone with only one hand. Understandably many would be surprised and become curious or avoid looking at it but to be uncomfortable around this person is insensitive and reflects poorly on themselves. Maybe they are uncomfortable because they are unsure of how to engage this person without maybe offending or embarrassing her so they themselves become uncomfortable because they do not want to seem ignorant or politically incorrect. I do think there is something seriously wrong with parents that do not know how to engage their children and educate them for this situation. It is these types of parents that I think really screw up their kids, or do not prepare them adequately for certain social situations. The funniest part about all of this is that the general stereotype is that of the ignorant American. Clearly in this situation we are taking the higher ground, and although it is true we may be ignorant to what is going on in many places of the world because we are shielded, we can hang our hat of having some kind of general courtesy in dealing with different kinds of people; at least more so than the British.
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Where to start with this article? Well for one, this is something I would have never heard about if it was not for the race relations blog. I am not a big newsreader, when I do check out a news site I tend to just skim through some titles and articles but I usually would not check out Britain when looking at world news. So, it was interesting to hear about this situation in a country that I always think seems similar to the United States, except for the accent and some cultural practices.
Mainly I was shocked to hear that a children’s television host who was born with a body disablement was getting negative complaints from viewers, or more like parent’s of viewers. So as a child under 6, I would maybe not notice if I were very young, but three to six I would probably notice that the host did not have a second hand. If that was the case I am sure a normal child would ask their parents why the women only had one hand and then the parents would explain. However, I think many children who are in school are taught before they enter that some children may have disabilities but that they must be treated as nicely and fairly as anyone else. For some families, this show would make for a great learning opportunity to help children understand disabilities but also see how someone can have one and be successful and even be on television. The complaint in the article from the father who was mad he had to explain disabilities to his child is pathetic. What kind of grown man is bothered that he has to take a little bit of time from his day to explain an important lesson of political correctness and manners to his child. Was he not ever going to explain things of this nature to the child before they went to school and may have encountered a similar or more extreme situation? I also think that for children with disabilities this woman that they watch on their television program can be a great inspiration.
One person commented on the article on the website that is difficult to have to explain so many issues to children before they go to school, but that is the type of society we live in. We have caused some of the issues that need to be explained to children at younger ages. Look at those singing twins whose parents have turned them into white nationalists.
I think it is hard to say what would happen in the United States if this show was either aired or if we had a similar situation. I feel that anywhere some people would react the same way and have a problem with this situation and I think that is wrong. However, in society there are people that have strong personal ideas and others who want to have their children live very sheltered lives.
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I believe that this matter is something that is being blown way out of proportion. The network reports that there have only been twenty-five credible complaints! Therefore, I find it trivial to truthfully give this issue much thought. That being said, it is incredible that there are parents raising children like the few that complained! Teaching a child about a particular disability is uneventful! How can a parent have any qualms about teaching their child about differences in the human body? I chalk it up to ignorance. Some parents desire to shelter their children, and some take it to the utmost extremes.
I have done a lot of work with disabled children. I coach children and adults that are disabled both mentally and physically. Before my first coaching experience I was intimidated. I had absolutely no clue how these people would react to me, and to be honest I was a little scared of them. However, upon starting these fears were quickly allayed. The athletes welcomed me with open arms and friendship, and I have had a tremendous time coaching them for the past few years. The point of this story is to reveal that people with disabilities are extremely similar to you and I. They may have a birth defect or some other abnormality, but that does not make them any less human. Quite frankly, I could never see this happening in the United States. I feel that the U.S. prides itself on its acceptance and accommodations for those with disabilities. A TV host in America with a disability could become an icon, a galvanizing force for all U.S. citizens with disabilities.
I find the actual disability that the woman has to be extremely small in the grand scheme of things. It is odd that people would become inclined to shelter their children from someone who is lacking a hand! What about Captain Hook? Should children not see Peter Pan due to the villain having a “disability”? The only adjective I can find for the issue at hand is silly. I see no intelligent thought from the parents that are complaining about the show. It’s funny, but the average child programming contains 6.5 violent acts a minute, and overall 69% of child programming contains violence, albeit of the stylized portion, Yet parents have no qualms over these issues. We do not mind letting our children see exorbitant acts of violence, but the minute a child TV show host shows up with one hand we declare the “atrocities” of television. It just does not add up!
I hope the added media attention will allow this woman to keep her show. It will be a direct reflection on the ignorance of the English community should she lose the show. Disabilities are facts of life, and children need to learn about them.
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After watching this video I can honestly say I was completely disgusted. It brought up a bunch of thoughts and the first was just that I do understand that a child may be confused at first seeing a women with one arm if they have never experienced anything of that sort. However, the actions of these parents were disgraceful. As a grown individual with children, I think it is disgusting that these parents would be writing to this news station, especially because like Sam said for such fundamental parenting advice. In my opinion, if you have to write a letter about how to address this issue you may not be best suited for being a parent. A parent that is struck with a confused child should be honest and say the women is a normal human being with normal feelings except she has a physical disability which does not make her any different then anyone else besides having a physical impairment.
This video also saddened me because it made me realize how much prejudice people with physical impairments must deal with on a day-to-day basis, which they should not have to worry about. I feel like since the people that I surround myself do not act in this prejudice manner it has definitely made me feel as if society does not act in this way, which is definitely not the case. Therefore, I really wonder when society as a whole will remove these prejudice thoughts from their minds? Will there ever be a day when everyone is accepted no matter what the individual looks like?
To be honest, I think American’s could possible be a lot worse on this issue than the individuals from Britain. I feel that there are so many outspoken Americans that would have no problem writing to the station about this woman. I do notice how so many people stop and stare when someone different walks by which is completely disgusting. Like Sam said what makes someone normal? For example, when I was in Disney World over spring break I was on a bus and there was a girl with only one leg and this mom and daughter would not stop staring at this young girl. This really disgusted me, I understand that the young child may have never seen anyone with one leg however, this mom should have known better then to gawk at this young girl which also sets a bad impression for her daughter. Although, every day I do not surround myself with prejudice people I do see people stare and say horrible remarks, which shows me that American society is no better. I also think American’s are extremely outspoken especially with things that appear in the media therefore, I believe many more prejudice parents would have written in about this TV program.
Therefore, after reading this blog and watching the video I can honestly say society, as a whole needs to grow in every country. An individual with a physical impairment is just like any other individual and should not be treated any different and I wonder what it is going to take for society as a whole to see this?
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I can’t imagine this happening in the United States. Wait, let me rephrase that. I can almost imagine some idiot saying this in the United States, but I cannot imagine anyone standing for it. In the U.S., I’m sure this network would be badgered with calls and complaints and posted all over the news until it finally issued a public apology.
I myself do not think that it is because we have learned not to discuss the issue that we disdain this kind of behavior, but rather that most of us are beyond it. We understand that unfortunately somebody is missing a part of a limb, but due to medical advances they have a prosthetic or human made replacement. I think medicine and our understanding of it and the use of prosthetics has come a long way and is no longer a closeted issue that people fail or understand or discuss.
Maybe other people think we are not beyond this issue, but let me state why I think otherwise. Recently, my boyfriend was in a car accident which resulted in the amputation of his left leg right below the knee. His recovery has been faster than most and we have been out shopping several times since. Actually, to be more precise, we have been out shoe shopping since. Since the ankle on his stage one prosthetic does not bend (you move up stages as you get used to using more complicated ones) and his knee is not yet healed enough to bend all the way, he had to take the prosthetic off to make sure the shoe fits on his fake foot or have someone else put it on for him. Either way, the prosthetic is painfully obvious. We were sitting in middle of Journey’s and, as I was helping him try on shoes, many people of many ages passed by. The teenagers (from around ages 12 to 18) did not stare or make any comments or even whisper or point as they walked away. One father had walked past us with his six year old son (I’m estimating the age). At that time, we had put all this effort into trying on the wrong shoe (aka chose the box with the right style shoe, but wrong box/size!). He smiled at us, almost as if to say, “I understand.” He then said, “Well at least you know you won’t be making that mistake anytime soon.” We both laughed and agreed. As for his son, he did not stare, point, or ask his dad what was going on; he just continued to pick out his favorite pair of shoes.
I have to admit, I was almost shocked that not one person that day had stared or done anything else that would make us aware of our situation. You would have thought everyone had a fake leg!
I do remember, a while back, while canning for Thon, a man with a prosthetic hand gave us a donation. We were all very happy for the donation; no one ever mentioned a thing about the hand. Did we notice it? Of course. Did we this it was odd? No. I think it has just become accepted that some people have substitution limbs, although I could be wrong. However, from my experience I think Americans are very accepting of others with any kind of prosthesis and would not stand for the scandal that appeared abroad.
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This article takes a different look into prejudice. Most people feel prejudice is only among people of different color, race, or religion. However, this is a story based on the discrimination against people with disabilities which are obvious on the surface such as having one hand verses two. I think any unprejudiced person would look at this situation and say that the people sending in complaints are extremely rude. If they knew how to parent their children and teach the common theme of difference, then they would not be complaining about this brave woman.
I do not know how this story would be treated in America. Perhaps people would send in complaints, and perhaps they would do the opposite. I would be among the opposite as a person who commends this actress in overcoming any criticism and pursuing careers where people can look up to her as a role model. This woman obviously has a difference and I think it is important to teach our next generation about the importance of differences. No two people are the same. If that were the case we would live a very boring world. If anyone was sending letters to the network, it should be to applaud this woman. She obviously has been through a lot and this proves to youngsters that regardless of a disability or a difference, goals can be achieved. What kind of world would it be if we discouraged everyone who had an illness or a disability? Blind musicians would never create masterpieces; disabled athletes would never win an Olympic gold medal.
I, too, think it is interesting and unfair that most people walk around thinking having two arms and two legs is normal and anyone disabled in any way is not normal. Normal is whatever one is used to each day. Therefore, I think we need to teach our children that it is okay to be different; it is okay to be someone others view as unusual. The people who succeed prove to those complainers that it doesn’t take two hands to be successful in the world. It’s a shame that people are treated differently and viewers think that this particular actress should be kept off of television because she might scare children. I think quite the opposite. I think this actress demonstrates and teaches children that normal does not mean you have two arms. Normal means you are who you are.
I think most Americans would react the same way that I do. However, racism is still obvious in the country and therefore, I think prejudice is as well. Everyone has their own views and I think that is why it is so important to teach our children that being different is okay.
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Unfortunately, I could not imagine a show in the United States featuring a person without an arm would get enough attention for an interview on ABC to appear. It is not because people feel comfortable and are fine with people with handicaps; I think it is because of fear of the unknown. People are afraid of voicing their opinions in fear of the response or impression they may make by articulating their statement. It is not just handicaps that people have these uneasy feelings about. It is really anything where a physical difference can be stated. This may include race, ethnicity, language barriers, mental disabilities, or any physical deformities.
I am not going to take the easy way out of this issue and say I am completely comfortable and give the proper respect that I should to handicap people. I’m sure many people can say along with myself that they have sat in the handicap luxury seats at the movie theater, sat in the handicap seats on the bus because they’re closer to the door, or even parked your car in a handicap spot when you know you shouldn’t have. Although these acts may seem minor or meaningless, imagine a handicap person not being able to park their car close enough to the store or have a seat which accommodates their needs.
Along with the awareness of people’s physical actions, there are many indirect behaviors that discriminate against handicap people. It is probably much harder to obtain a high position job where you have a mental or physical handicap. It may not be limited to just the hiring of the position, but may not have the appropriate conditions or programs which can accommodate for this type of person’s disability. Along with applying for a job, it is much more limiting applying for college as a result of a requirement being the campus needs to be handicap accessible or have the adequate special education programs to help accommodate a person’s learning method.
Although a “normal” person would be considered to have two eyes, two ears, a nose, and a mouth, it is extremely difficult for any individual to be able to adapt to something other than a “normal” face because it is just what we are used to. When a person with a physical abnormality walks down the street, people’s first instinct is to stare at them in shock that they could function a day without a finger, an arm, or even a leg. It is unfortunate that society has been brainwashed to think of what is normal or standard in society. I think there should defiantly be more acknowledgement and awareness raised towards people with disabilities or physical handicaps. There can never be enough done in the world to help educate and integrate people of difference.
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Unfortunately, I can imagine some Americans who would break the political correctness code and write a letter to a TV station against having Katya Mira as a host. There are always going to be a few people who are passionately close-minded and discriminatory and those are the people who make the most noise. So these are the people who end up representing the nation. I think it’s unfair to say that the US iis more open minded than the UK. I think that we just may keep certain things quieter. It is terrible that these discriminatory people exist and I agree that they should not have children, Especially people who are unable to explain understanding differences to their kids. It really would be great to require some sort of screening process / training and development before allowing people to have kids.
In general, I think most Americans are open-minded and would be accepting of Katya. Hopefully they would see her as a good way to teach their kids about disabilities at a young age. I do think that a lot of people are still uncomfortable when they are around a disabled person. I think one of the reasons for that is because of the fear of offending a person with disabilities. The fear of not being PC enough. Is this okay, or would it be better for people to just be straight forward and say that they feel uncomfortable and wonder what is correct or incorrect in terms of wording/actions.
Here’s an awkward situation I experienced recently, I was talking to a person with one hand and when I went to shake their hand I accidentally went for the wrong one. This was extremely awkward and I really felt like I had offended the person. They were kind and understanding and laughed about it, telling me that it happens all the time and not to worry about it. But I still felt terrible about being so insensitive and for the rest of our conversation I was thinking about her disability instead of what we were talking about. I think a lot of people are afraid of getting into a situation like this one. And because of this won’t be open and get to know a person with a disability. Also, we really aren’t taught about disabled people in school. And as a child, they would seem very different because not only does a disability make someone look different but it also often causes that person to be put into a special class. This complete separation adds to the discomfort and lack of knowledge that people have about disabled people.
I really think that this article is just exposing the views of a few people. Yeah they are stupid close-minded views but they only represent 25 people and should not be used to make generalizations about the whole country.
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In all honesty, I am not surprised by the viewer’s reactions regarding the disabled host. It is hard to understand that those who fear this disabled woman are the parents, and not their children. Are we not supposed to be more open-minded and mature when we get older? So really, there is no issue here at all except that the parents are making an issue out of absolutely nothing. Most often than not, I find that kids are not particularly bothered by differences they notice, they are merely curious. Like Kerry says in the interview, children are “inquisitive,” ask questions about why people are different and then move on. I think that children are curious because children want to know everything! Like the host said, “Kids just need an explanation. Then they’ll go onto the next thing.” What’s sad is that the children of these parents are taught to fear such “abnormalities.” If not taught, where else would they learn such behaviors? It’s absolutely ridiculous that the parents who wrote in to the show mask their fear behind their “concerns” for their children.
I do not think there is a difference in the way Americans would react to this issue versus the way the British acted. I am sure that “concerned” parents would be calling in left and right if they saw a disabled actor or actress host a show. Maybe that’s why I can’t think of a single disabled person on a television show, movie, or any other type of media. As for having television shows similar to Kerry’s in the United States, I do not think that it will happen anytime soon. It will not happen because the media is obsessed with bringing in money. The media moguls will do anything to achieve this single goal, so they will not bring in any material that will create negative controversy. Props to the Brits for putting a disabled woman as a host for a children’s show.
I thought the actress made a good point when she talked about how important it was to discuss people with disabilities. She stressed the importance of dialogue – an issue Sam also emphasizes. As human beings, it’s unfortunate, but I think we tend to shy away from talking about issues that may make us feel uncomfortable. It’s selfish, and even though I am not proud to admit it, it is something that I catch myself doing at times. I am not exactly sure why, but I think that the media has an enormous influence on my subconscious.
This article reaffirmed my belief that race is only a part of the dialogue. There are so many issues that people are uncomfortable with discussing, including people with disabilities and class just to name a couple.
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Although individuals in Britain are complaining about the disabled woman being televised, the fact of the matter is that she is being televised. This is more than we can say for America. Honestly, how often do you turn your TV on and see disabled people broadcasting the news, hosting talk shows, cooking shows, or children’s programs in the United States? Never. I am in no way, shape, or form saying that this is right or how it ought to be, but just the fact that this woman was hired for the job and not required to wear a prosthetic arm truly shocked me. I truly believe that if this woman voiced her refusal to wear such to an American television network, she would be denied the position.
Hypothetically, however, had this woman appeared on a U.S. television station, I honestly am unable to make any prediction regarding the response expressed by the American public. Part of me believes that complaints would be flooding into the network just as they had in Britain. Another part of me, however, feels as though members of society would overlook it, ignore its existence, pretend it was not present, and do as best they could to move on without ever addressing the issue. I feel this way ultimately because I feel as though American society is not—or perhaps more accurately—does not want to be ready to have the conversation concerning those with disabilities, just as American society, for quite some time now, has made great attempts to avoid the discussion regarding race. Yet as I reread this, I have come to a sad conclusion: neither of these two scenarios involve the public approaching this woman and her appearance on national television with a warm welcome, or a celebration, or a joyful relief that our culture has made such progress. Neither of these two scenarios involve the public perceiving this woman and her appearance on national television as a step in the right direction, or a milestone in the lives of those across the country with a disability.
The ratio between the percentage of disabled individuals comprising our nation’s population and the percentage of disabled individuals comprising television personalities is incredibly disproportionate. It is terribly sad that this is the reality in which we live—judging people based upon their external appearance rather than the people they are, and what they can bring to the table. When are we going to set aside physical qualities and look at a person for who they really are—their character, strengths, and talents? We as a society are treating those with disabilities as we have individuals of other races and cultural ethnicities: we are shutting them off from the rest of the world, acting as though they do not exist, and denying them the right to participate in and contribute to human civilization.
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So would this happen in the United States? Can you imagine a network here receiving this many complaints? If we’re different on this side of the drink, is it because we’re beyond this issue or is it because we’ve learned NOT to discuss it, that it would be crass or improper to raise this as an issue?
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I am torn on this piece. On one side it is hard for me to believe this was the most pressing news for this talk show, I don’t think there should have to be a disability discussion. The hosts themselves made it an issue by even having the woman on. They didn’t even acknowledge the hypocrisy of the discrimination they were taking part in on air. The fact that parents think their children will be scared to see the British woman from the children’s show without a arm is more of their own fear then their children’s. I think they are discriminating themselves. Seeing a woman with a disability would not scare children. Form personal experience children, like the woman from the children’s chow states in the clip, are more curious then scared. Kids are always asking questions when they are young, from why did that character in that movie do that to why is that woman missing an arm? Children say what is on their minds and if anyone should know this is should be their parents. So I have to wonder what it is that the parents are making such an issue out of this. I do commend the woman for going on the talk show. I felt like she was on the defense though. Instead of being able to discuss the rights of those with disabilities she had to defend herself from something she could not control. She was also alone on the show defending herself against parents and the talk show hosts. It was a strange set up. I do believe she did well though, she also made the point that the children are not the ones that are scared. This should have been the issue of the piece, why parents are threatened and scared. Not how the woman felt about scaring children- no story there in my mind. I think the fact that parents are scared of the unknown themselves and feel they can not ask questions makes them believe that of their children too. When the fact is children are the most real people. They speak their mind, and once they learn answers move on, they be curious of the one armed woman and ask their parents questions about it. Perhaps parents are intimidated by having this conversation and would rather just not have to deal with it by taking people like the disabled woman off of TV instead of educating their children themselves. Ideally, parents should want their children to be open-minded and educated on an array of topics. It’s just strange to me and I have a hard time understanding it. I don’t know if this would happen in the United States, I sure would hope not. I am sure that a station would receive a few complaints, because there are always those few people. But I would hope it would be dramatically less because of our melting pot mentality- that the United States is comprised of an array of people and that is not limited to race and ethnicity but also those with disabilities and those without.
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I cannot understand how this is still possible. The people that are writing to the show saying, “Is it me, or do you think the new girl is going to scare the kids”, are in my personal opinion ignorant. Seriously, it is a show for children and from the small part of the show that I saw she seems like a gentle and nice character. I do not understand how the parents can refer to as scary. I understand that small children will be curious and will wish to inquire more about why she only has one arm, but that is no excuse for referring to her as scary. It is ridiculous to say something like that because that is such discrimination because clearly if the parents of the target audience are writing to the producers about her being disabled, they want something to be done. Do these people really want her to be pulled off the show because she only has one arm? That is ridiculously stupid in my personal opinion. If she has not done anything inappropriate on the show than I do not feel there is any reason to not let her do her job. People can say that they fear the unknown and different, but I honestly feel that it is such an excuse for ignorant mentality. I feel that this happens everywhere. I cannot know for sure what would happen if this was America, as opposed to Britain. I wish I could say that this would not happen if this show was being played in America. The sad truth is that there is a good possibility in my opinion that it would. There are hardly ever any handicapped people on television unless they are type-casted to play the role of a disable person. It is unfair because we constantly hear talk about equal opportunity and yet we do not see it when we turn on the television. If tomorrow I turned on my television and I saw a woman with one arm hosting a television show I can honestly say I would be shocked. I feel as though producers and television executives try their best to only show what they feel their audience consider “pretty people”. I say this because almost every single host on a show in America seems to fit the same outward criteria of attractiveness. It just irritates me that anything different would most likely be shunned. I am not sure if people would be as vocal about it if the show was in America, but there would definitely be mixed feelings and dislike. I just feel terrible that this woman who seems really nice has to face this kind of discrimination. She seems like a strong woman because she does not seem to let it faze her. I completely respect the fact that she does not blame the children for being inquisitive about her state, but understands that a child is normally curious what they have never seen before.
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I cannot believe that people are complaining about having a disabled person on a show for kids. This person clearly can do like anybody else would do in the same job performance. The problem with the only issue they are having is the fact that she was born without a hand. I think that it is better for children to be exposed to this from a young age rather than sheltered until they are teenagers. Kids believe what their parents value at a younger age. The people that are complaining is because they were not exposed to this kind of situation when they were younger. If they had been exposed this wouldn’t be a problem. To not having your children to watch a TV show just because the host has a disability, a lot of progress needs to be made in that country. This woman is obviously enjoying her job, likes working with children, and isn’t all that upset about the complaints. Her mind set is right. People are acting like this woman is on TV trying to teach kids on some crazy stuff. She is capable of doing what the complainers would do even better because if they were that smart this wouldn’t be an issue. Kids will encounter people weather with both arms and one arm. The parents should teach their kids just because a person is missing an arm or a leg it doesn’t mean there are not regular. Because you never know what the future holds. Americans are more open to this kind of situations. Obviously, there are differences in culture. So to most Americans, we are accustomed to our social norms that handicapped differences are acceptable and should be taught to children, but they should not really be discussed in everyday conversation. To the British, it is an entirely different situation in that handicapped differences are not really acceptable. Not to say our culture is better but this is just not right. I think it is small groups that are complaining. it is important to remember that it is a small group of idiots from the United Kingdom that think this way. Still the fact that some people are that ignorant about it bothers me, and the fact that they are actually parents scares me a little. I just do not understand why they are afraid or unwilling to talk to their kids about the fact that many people are born with disabilities. I personally would rather my child be informed about all the different people and things that exist in the world, so they would be better able to survive in it. No one should be discriminated against based on a disability because most people were not responsible for their own disability.
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In responding to the blog “For the Sake of the Children, Please Keep the Disabled in the Closet” it is definitely very disturbing to hear that some people are discriminating against children that are disable. I thought that we are created equally no matter how we were born and that we should be treated fairly. It is very depressing especially for children have to be face with something so that cruel. This issue already has happened in the United States of America to a certain extent. The reason why I say that is if you know about public schools throughout the United States of America, some of the students makes fun about students being in the special educational programs and don’t want to be around them. I believe that some people feel embarrassed to hang out with individuals who are different from them. They fell uncomfortable to hang out with somebody with one hand, one leg, or any other chronic disabilities in that nature. Reality is that everyone in the world is created differently and no person is created identically the same. So we as humans should not judge nobody regardless of what kind of differences that a person may from others. I can’t believe that some of the parents had the audacity to call the network and made complaints like they have done. Instead of some of the parents called the network to make complaints, they should called to see how they could they improve the services for disable children. These children didn’t ask to be born the way they did and they have feelings just like every human being in the world. That is one of many problems that many us face around the world today is discrimination. Some of us are always quick to criticize someone is abnormal. If some people had time to look at themselves and make changes they need, then they won’t have time to judge other. It is very painful that children have to go through getting laughed and making them fell very self-conscious about themselves. Children regardless of being disable or not, need some attachment for caring for them and being secured. When a child is disable and if people not showing them love and support like normally children should receive, and then as they get older they will fell ambivalent of what is love and how to react in various of emotions. This is to me is a real cold and callous act on the part on the parents, guardians, or who else might of played this role. I agree that the people that were involved in this are blockheads and very close minded. These children with disabilities, wants positive attention and someone to be there for them to help guide them throughout life.
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To be quite honest, it does not surprise me that there are those who are shocked and appalled by a children’s television show host with only one arm. That is not to say that I agree with the strict standards of ‘normalcy’ that rule people’s lives, I’ll get to my personal opinion in a moment. I am simply saying that it does not surprise me. There are plenty of parents out there who feel the need to shelter their children from anything and everything that goes against their morals and will do whatever it takes to make sure that they are protected from ‘the outside world’. The sad truth is that many of those parents are living in a world where disabled people are just ‘not normal’. The stigma about disabled people is not a dis-ease troubling only the Brits, but people all over the world, including the United States. I think that it’s just not a topic that has been confronted in this country yet. Is that because we are afraid of the subject and are avoiding it completely on some level? That is quite possibly the case. Then again, just because it isn’t on television doesn’t mean that the issue is not addressed on the street every day, Every day parents shield their children’s eyes at the site of the woman strolling down the street in a wheelchair with one leg, or quickly cross the street before their children have the chance to see the homeless man on the corner without a foot. Think about it, parents want to protect their children from anything that goes against their idea of normal in fear of corrupting their innocence. Do they think they can’t handle the realities of the world? I have to agree with the television host when she said that if children are old enough to be inquisitive about such realities, they are old enough to understand the answers.
If anything, I think that the fact that children are being exposed to the realities of the world. Just because the television host was born without one of her hands doesn’t mean that she is incapable of providing children with whatever knowledge they would be gaining from a woman with two hands. In a way I guess it is not completely out of line for some parents to have some doubts or even fears about seeing a disabled person hosting a television show, whether they are the viewers or their children are, simply because it isn’t something that has been publicized in years past. It’s not what they ‘know’ of television. That being said, I don’t think that these fears will last forever. People will get over and move on in time, and if not, well that’s the reality that they are stuck in.
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While watching this video, I became shocked on how severe the complaints toward Cerrie were. I understand that the first impression is awkward but people have to understand that there are individuals who are born with disabilities. Not everyone in the world is perfect but I feel that it is our personality and character that we should look at. For example, despite all the negative comments Cerrie has been receiving, she is still obligated to teach young children a good education. I am proud of her for this because she doesn’t care how other people but the support that she is receiving from others, shows that they have appreciated her work. When she was describing how parents felt about her, it appears that most of them haven’t grown up yet. If we are to complain about people with certain disabilities, should we then target the elderly? I mean they are unable to perform certain duties but that doesn’t give us the right to make negative comments about them. Anyone in general with a disability should not be targeted because they are just the same as any other person. The only difference I see is that they are emotionally strong when dealing with harsh comments. In the article posted on cnn.com, one parent complained that he had to explain to his child about Cerrie’s disability. I understand talking to a young person about this is strange but I feel it’s the same situation if a parent were to discuss with their child about sex or drugs. Parents should teach their children whatever life aspect is necessary even if it is a young age. I when I went with my friends to a fast food restaurant, we noticed a woman with a mechanical leg. After she was done eating, she walked out the door and almost tripped. I noticed in the corner that a bunch of kids were laughing at her and I couldn’t believe what I saw for those thirty seconds. I felt guilt because I don’t know whether the parents are to be blamed or the fact they had no sympathy. Many things went through my mind but I didn’t bother saying anything to them because they wouldn’t care. Now that I have read this article, I feel that the same concept is applying. Cerrie is like any other person doing her job so that she can be happy. When this story went through the media, more people became frustrated but for what reason? When children are getting good education, people should appreciate that person giving it to them. There is no alternative that she can do but to keep her head up and ignore all these comments. I hope people will realize people like Cerrie, who want to contribute to society despite the odds stacked against them. On the other hand, I hope that parents will give their child that “safety seat”.
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Given the fact “that the vast majority of Brits think the complainers are idiots, dolts, and blockheads”, I am sure many, many more Americans would complain, or at least speak their minds about the subject of a one-armed children’s show host. I, a twenty year old American woman who has diverged into college life and participates in a race relations class, would not find a problem with this disabled woman on television, but as far as my description goes, not many Americans are as accepting as how I feel I am. I also know that I have not always been this way. People’s nature is to judge off the bat. Normalcy is obviously two arms and ignorance of what others have been through comes into play. If I were used to seeing people with two arms, seeing one arm would stand out. Not that I would think more or less of the person, I would just pick up on the difference immediately. Now given I would NEVER call to complain about the show host because I am sure she is great for children (she did get the job after all), I am sure more Americans would object than Brits.
I just talked about my 20-year-old self, but what would my 5-year-old self think of this woman? I am not going to lie; I would probably be slightly scared. Scared, not because of her personality or anything, but I know that as a child I found “different” things scary because I was uninformed and inexperienced with them. When I was very young I met my great uncle for the first time. He was born with out a hand. I did not know what to think of him and I told my parents about it. They thought I was nuts and told me my Uncle Joe was a normal guy. I then, with my parents consent, began to interact with him and found out he was a great, funny man just like I would hope an uncle should be. I do not know what he had gone through in life, probably many stares and criticisms growing up, but look how he turned out… married to a great wife with a good job, just what any man could ask for. Becoming experienced with his disability I began to ignore it and come to know my uncle for who he really was. Maybe for those criticizers of the show, they can talk to their children about the topic and make their kids more comfortable with the disabled. Great Britain was obviously not afraid to air the show, but I am sure America would have second thoughts about it and most likely not have the disabled host, which is unfair. If the woman is qualified for the job, she deserves it.
Also, I find it slightly funny that this is a “race relations” blog. I never thought as a disability as a race, but I do understand it in terms of discrimination. People just need to relax and be more accepting of things outside their own “bubbles”.
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I think the criticism Cerrie Burnell of the BBC network is receiving is appalling and uncalled for. Anyone who has a disability should be entitled to the same opportunities as those who are not, especially in a field where hers does not inhibit her ability to perform well in any way at all. I would have to guess that she has faced these criticisms her entire life and hopefully she has acquired the skills to overlook the ignorance and intolerance of some close-minded people. Sometimes society fears those who are not like the norm and those things they may have never seen before. In any situation like this, I would have to associate more with those who are giving Burnell praise for not hiding her disability and congratulate her on pursuing a career in something she loves; despite the fact she knowingly would receive criticism along the way.
The man who complained about how the host’s disability prompted a conversation with his child about disabilities should not be seen as a negative. It is good for children to ask questions and be informed. The sad part is that it sounds as if his parent was going to give him some negative or controversial advice that is not going to help his child form a positive opinion about others and to treat them equally. It is scenarios like this that maybe the host should think about addressing her disability to the younger audience so that they can see how it does not hold her back in everyday life and how she is both unique and similar to others. I remember that they used to address these questions and scenarios on the childhood shows I used to watch, like Sesame Street or Barney, so it is kind of strange to me that a parent would be so blindsided by this, because it is something I thought was adequately addressed to me when I was young.
If this situation would occur in the United States, I’m not sure if would be any different. Some people would see the positives, some the negatives and some would just not care. There are always people trying to get a rise out of others along the way, so I’m sure complaints would be made. At the same time, I do not think a station would hold a disability like the one of Cerrie Burnell against her, at least after she was already on air. However, I am not an expert about the hiring schemes of networks and producers, but I would hope we have come far enough to not let a disability, such as a missing limb, to come ahead of who is truly qualified for the position. Personally, I would never judge anyone based solely on their disability and that is a message I plan to relay to my kids. Hopefully opportunities to openly discuss disabilities or ask questions about something you may have never seen before as well as the underlying concept that everyone is still the same in most other respects is something that the majority of our population has conveyed to their children and the future generations follow that example.
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To say the very least I do not think Americans would be all the different from what they found in Britain. I think it is ridiculous that there was complaints about someone on the show being disabled but it didn’t all together shock me. As Sam says we have set these standards of normalcy and for anyone else to not meet these standards we think they are just weird and shouldn’t be dealt with which is absurd. This is totally wrong though because we need to be teaching our children about how everyone in our society is different and special. This women on the show gives disabilities new attention that they haven’t had but it could be for a positive outlook. She is showing that even though she is a disabled person her disability is not stopping her she is still able to work on television and live a normal life. I feel like we have this belief that if people are disabled they cannot do anything but this is not the truth. There are endless ways to accomplish everything these days. The parents who wrote in and complained should be ashamed. As the woman in the show says they need to just use their parenting skills and teach their children about disabilities if they are asking questions and I think even if they aren’t asking questions. Every parent should be comfortable enough to talk about it, yes some disabled people may seem different to us like only having one arm but children need to be explained to that everyone looks different and these things happen to people but that doesn’t mean that they are not people and cannot still do normal things. I think it is really important to talk about disabilities because children are always going to encounter disabilities. There are the more obvious disabilities like the loss of arms and legs but there are many that affect thousands of children in schools all across the country. Because of IDEA these children get to attend normal school just like they should. These disabilities can run from physical to learning to vision to hearing disabilities. Children need to learn how disabilities are part of some peoples lives and how we should not judge people just because they have them because children are going to come in contact with some of these children in the school system and we do not want them to be bullying or scared to interact with children that are just like them. Teaching children at an early age the differences between people can be beneficial. It can help them learn to accept others regardless what they look like.If they are taught these things young maybe we can start correcting the problem of children seeing color and thinking one is better to talk to then the other or that they are not allowed or are scared to talk to people of different color or ethnicity. No one should be complaining about a show that has a woman with a disability on it when we have other shows that are not beneficial to children or teach them things that we might not want them to know but these shows are still broadcasted on the air without much a complaint because it keeps on children occupied, entertained, and we don’t have to answer questions. Questions are what help children grow and learn they should be encouraged. So these parents need to stop complaining and answer their children’s questions.
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I don’t know if I am being overly optimistic, but I would hope that Americans would act differently in this type of situation. Since the United States contains such a diverse combination of citizens, I would find it surprising if something like this would occur in our country. There are all kinds of disabilities, some that are more well-known, and others that are more rare occurrences. However, no matter how rare a disability is, people should be educated about the very topic, and be accepting like you would for anyone else, even if they may be different than yourself. Disabled individuals should not need to worry about anyone being afraid of them. Whether they are in a wheelchair or not, they should be shown the same respect as anyone. I have to say that I was very surprised that so many people were so ignorant about the whole subject. We still live in a society where anyone that is one bit different than the majority has the potential for discrimination and criticism. I don’t care if this woman was missing both arms and legs, she should be treated the same as any actress who living without a disability. The fact that she is missing an arm does not in any way affect the way she does her job.
I had a distant cousin who was born with severe cerebral palsy. He has since passed away from complications due to his disability. However, I will not forget the stares and looks that he received when his mother would push him somewhere in his wheelchair. Because of this, my parents talked to my sister and I about disabled individuals at a very young age. If you have questions about someone’s disability, do not stare. Go up to the individual and ask questions. Instead of being completely ignorant about the topic, become educated and possibly pass on the information making everyone more comfortable with something that they are not familiar with. If everyone gets to know a disabled individual or are simply educated about the topic, there will be less discrimination towards the individuals and most definitely less children being “afraid” of someone who was born without a hand. People, especially children, need to know that just because someone has a disability does not mean that they are that much different from someone who does not. Parents need to step up to the plate and talk about these types of things with their children. Do not just let society teach your children everything. What if you child was in the same classroom as a child with a disability, wouldn’t you want them to be comfortable from the get go and be one of the children who does not even let it faze them. I would want my child to be someone who accepts them with open arms, rather than some who stare, criticize, or be afraid of one of their peers. Parents are an important influence in their children’s lives, and it is up to them to educate their kids about those who are different around them.
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This article is absolutely repulsive. I cannot imagine what kind of “adult” acts like such an immature human being. It is stupid and irresponsible to think that when one becomes a parent, he or she will never have to explain things to his or her child. There are so many issues that children run into everyday – and since they are kids, they question almost everything! I have never met a child who did not do this. They are so curious about the world and take everything as a learning experience without even realizing it. The woman even said herself that children come up to her on the street because they are inquisitive. All they want is an explanation and once they get one, they can move on to the next thing. She also said that asking questions makes them old enough to understand and want an answer. Parents who think they should not have to discuss something as simple as why someone is missing a hand are idiots. Whether kids run into it on television, see someone on the street, or even have a family member with a disability, they are going to recognize it and then they are going to ask a parent or another adult why that person is the way they are. It’s not even a difficult topic to discuss with children! It’s actually quite simple: “Some people have had accidents or were born a certain way that makes them not have a hand. It does not mean that the person is any different than you or me.” And someone missing a hand is again, such a minimal disability. Don’t parents understand that there are thousands of children with mental and physical disabilities, going to school with their own children? Some are going to special education classes for parts of the day but many are being able to incorporate the general education classes into their day as well. Your perfectly non-disabled child is probably going to school with at least one other child in their class who has a disability. And again, when they question why a little boy in their class acts weird, as parents it is your job to explain to them that the boy has a disability but still must be respected as everyone else. Having a person with a disability on television is just opening grounds for discussion. The more that children are exposed to, the more they can learn about the world. Another thing that disturbed me was how intense the discrimination was for disabled people. I never have run into that situation so I was unaware of the prejudice that they deal with on a daily basis. I felt very bad for the woman but was impressed at her ability to take it with a grain of salt and that she hoped it would just be a learning experience for everyone.
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I must say that I was in awe that this was an issue anywhere. Tons of people these days have a disability of some sort. To have people send in complaints because this woman is on TV show for children. I commend her for not wanting to go on with a prosthetic arm; she should just be herself and not have to worry about what people will say. Parents should not be worried about their children seeing this woman on TV, but they should be thankful she is doing it. Some kids go almost their whole life not seeing someone in this woman’s situation, and when those children to meet that person with a disability they do not know what to do. By having this woman on a children’s show parents should be happy to know that their children now know that people with disabilities so exist and they may better be able to deal with them when they come into contact with them.
There was a teacher in my high school that was in the women on the TV shows type of situation. Granted she had the whole are and hand but one was a lot smaller than the other, she had one hand that looked like a little baby’s foot. If I were to find out that people felt uncomfortable with her teaching her classes anymore I would be mad because she was an amazing teacher and for people to judge her just like that I think is wrong. The people who judge the woman on the video for just her out word appearance should be punished in someway because who knows she was probably the best person for the job. They had to have a reason for hiring her just like they would for anyone else.
If this were in the United States I do not know what would happen. I would hope it would turn out very differently but I know that there are still some closed minded people out there, who would say that. I would also like to think that people would not be uncomfortable around people with one hand or one leg or one of anything or just a disability in general. All people are the same and like Sam said they may experience things a little differently than a person with two hands would but they may be able to shed some light on different ways of doing things that people with two hands would never think of. I bless this lady for having the courage to do what she did; she is standing up in the face of those people and telling them off. My one question about this whole thing is I wonder if she was told she was going to have to answer questions about the complaints in this other show, she seemed surprised and caught off guard.
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I would hope that Americans would be more acceptable of this woman on the television, but unfortunately, I think that people would probably make the same complaints here. I think it is ridiculous to think that adults are being so ignorant. I think that it was wonderful for Keri to take the time out to explain to any child curious about her disability because maybe a lot of them aren’t getting any type of answers at home. Keri is accepting people different than herself so why shouldn’t we accept her. This is the same as the race issue. Disabilities are just as important to be talked about. Being curious about others is not a crime, but totally writing someone off just because of a handicap is wrong in every way imaginable. I think the biggest reason for all the complaints is because it makes parents job a little bit harder. They have to talk about something they themselves might not be comfortable with. Parents need to maybe educate themselves or open their minds a little bit so that they can become more comfortable with differences.
I think that it is a wonderful thing that a disabled woman is hosting the children’s television show. I think that with her hosting it she is giving the children a chance to see someone different. This allows them to develop questions and realize that people are not all the same. Different is not a bad thing and these children are getting the opportunity to see that. They are having the opportunity to see this woman and see that she is capable of doing everything that the person that’s not disabled can do. The show also has a host whom is not disabled and both hosts have the same abilities.
I am so shocked to see that parents are writing in that children will be scared of the woman because she only has one arm. I think this is crazy to think she shouldn’t be able to host a television show for kids because fear they may get scared. Parents need to think outside the box. This woman is giving the parents the perfect opportunity to be there for their kids. If their kids have questions parents can answer the questions. If children get the knowledge this early that people are not the same then maybe as they go through school they will be more accepting of individuals different from themselves whether it is their religion, their race, or a disability. Parents should explain that it’s ok to recognize these differences and accept them. When children get positive explanations and attitudes towards people with disabilities they will express the same positive emotions towards the disabled.
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After watching the clip about the disabled woman who hosts a children’s television show, I am in shock. But I am not in shock by the fact that she has only one arm. I am in shock that people actually sent in complaints about this. Parents are worried this will “scare” their children. I am tired of parents who think the protecting their children is the best way to raise them. Why don’t they try exposing their children to the many realities of life so that they can react to and handle different situations with intelligence? I know if I was a 5 year old child who just saw someone with only one arm for the first time, I would have questions. I could see this person in a mall and loudly exclaim, “Mommy, why does that lady only have one arm!?” or I could see this woman on TV, learn that she was born that way and it is perfectly normal, and be much more respectful when I encounter a disabled person at the mall someday. Also, what exactly would be scary about a person with one arm? If a child (with two arms) is watching the show, they may be confused, even feel sorry for the person. But upon an explanation, they would probably just accept the situation and move on. In my experience with children, kids are much more accepting than adults, and we should take advantage of their young, open minds. Also, the child has nothing to fear. If they have both arms, they can be grateful. But they were already born, so they do not need to fear being born with one arm. If they lose an arm someday or meet someone who has only one, they will understand and be more sympathetic. Personally, I would love for my children to watch this show someday. A lot can be learned if we just open up to people who are different. I understand this particular clip is about disabilities, not race, but the same ideas can be applied to race. We talked in group today about encouraging diversity and learning about other cultures to better ourselves. The disabled members of society do in fact have their own culture, and we would all benefit from accepting and embracing that. In high school, I volunteered with the Special Olympics. Did it scare me to see these different people? Absolutely not. I cannot remember what I was told as a child about people with disabilities, but I do know that working with these people made me appreciate them so much more. I think the United States would be a different situation all together. I believe that, due to political correctness, people in this country would be too scared to speak up about the woman hosting the children’s show. In fact, I could see Oprah inviting the woman on her show to talk about how great this is and how she is really changing people’s views for the better. There is one case where I could see this being an issue in the U.S. Most TV shows and movies (media) do not portray disabled people all that often. I hope not, but I think some TV networks would not sign for this woman to host a show just because of her disability. This is absolutely wrong, but if there was no show, there would obviously be no backlash from the public. Overall, I think the U.S. would handle a disabled TV host so much better than the British. We let Dick Clark host the New Year’s Rockin’ Eve two years in a row following a stroke. Although he can hardly speak and is obviously disabled from the stroke, people watched and celebrated the obstacles he has overcome.
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The video kind of hit home to me since I plan on working with children for the rest of my life. It doesn’t surprise me that parents raised concern over this issue. I have learned through readings and from personal experience that parents are very protective of their children. Parents and caregivers are very particular of what their children are exposed to, as they should be in certain instances.
While I do not agree with the complaints, the more I think about it, the more I believe that there are more people in this class and world who would also complain or at least question about the host. Let’s be honest here for a minute. While the host I’m sure is a “norma”l person who does normal things, brush her teeth, eat spaghetti, sleep, go shopping, and go out boozing, in reality, she is not considered to be the “physical” norm. The norm is having two arms and two hands with ten fingers and two legs and two feet with ten toes. Again, am I saying that it is right to complain about someone’s physical characteristics when we should be focused on their morals and personality characteristics? No. But, Sam always says not to lie and fool ourselves. You notice race, and just like race, you notice physical “abnormalities.”
What is normal you may ask? Wow. That’s a tough question because a person can be considered normal in the physical sense but not be normal in the emotional sense like a serial killer. But, for the sake of this journal, let’s just consider the physical aspect of being “normal.” To the host of the show, normal is having one arm, but I think for the majority of the people in the world they would consider normal to be having two arms. Most people typically have two arms, so I’m going to bet it is safe to say that most people are going to consider having two arms the normal thing. If more and more people were walking around with one arm missing, then the norm would probably change. I don’t know why people accept certain things as the norm, but they just do. Some things in life don’t have an explanation or a reason. It just is. That’s the one thing I really can’t stand about sociology and sociology classes. There isn’t always an answer for everything. It is what is, and you can question and refute it all you want, but chances are it isn’t going to change. Why is it “normal” to sleep at night when it is dark as compared to sleep in the day when it is light out?
If an adult notices something like a missing arm or leg, and again don’t lie because you know you will notice it, then a child is absolutely going to notice. And, yes they are going to be scared and confused at first no matter what an adult tells them. Take monsters and haunted houses for instance. I remember my mom and dad always telling me how monsters aren’t real. There are no such things as zombies, vampires, ghosts, and werewolves. They would tell me that the people in haunted houses and horror movies were just real, normal people in real life. But no matter how many times they told me that, I still was scared and curious when I encountered such things. They are children. As adults, life is still a new experience, so imagine a child. EVERYTHING is new. They don’t understand why an arm is missing, and at first to them, it is going to look weird. There is always that initial awkwardness. No one wants to be that person who says to a blind person, “Oh, did you see that episode of Lost last night?”
As for Americans, I think people would most definitely complain about such a thing. People and parents find a way to complain about anything. I strongly believe that it is important that we expose children to such “abnormal” things at a young age. Books, shows, videos, and discussions need to be exposed to children about AIDS, gays, lesbians, and transgenders, obesity, socioeconomic status, etc. Anything that people consider to be different. Of course, it should be an abridged version to make it age appropriate, but I commend the British network for using the woman as a host. I honestly believe that most children and families will get over the fact that she is physically different then them. Children are critical observers, but they also forget and forgive easily. I do however commend those who actually wrote letters and complained. While I stated above that I don’t agree with their belief on this subject matter, it takes balls to actually do that, and I don’t think they are idiots at all. Maybe naive, but not blockheads. At least they had the balls to be honest to themselves. But, I would advise them to turn the channel next time.
I guess the point I am trying to make though with this long winded journal entry is that while we might not agree with the discrimination these complainers made, to come full circle with the whole “normal” issue, I think that is “normal” for people, espeically children, to be curious about the host. I think her distinct physical characteristic is something that people would notice, and hopefully embrace it as a new learning experience.
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Parents never want to hurt their kids. Parents never want to scare their kids. All they try to do is love and protect them from harm. In a mothers head, what are the things that may scare or hurt the children? Well I guess a lot of parents think that anything outside the norm would be harmful for the children to see. It is absolutely pathetic how far these parents will go in this case. It is not like this handicapped lady is walking down the street and staring at your child making scary faces. She is doing the best thing possible for children and actually trying to help them. And parents completely reject this attempt because she has one arm and it might be scary. But the truth is, if your child does not get used to occasions or instances outside the regular of society, eventually that same child who was sheltered his whole childhood would be scared and isolated with ideas his entire life.
In order for people of any race or ethnicity to become accepting of others they need exposure to the real world and not the one set mind of the adults in your world. Even if schools were to start these matters earlier would be smart, but really it’s the parents who get into the head of the children which cause mishaps in the world of race. Even when you look at this instance with arm and the children who don’t know how to handle it; the parents need to explain the idea that some things in the world are different. People are different.
From friends and people that I have talked to, the most prejudice and racist are the least knowledgable. They are the least intelligent on this matter because they have the least exposure. That means when it comes to race, the ones who are racist are the ones who live and attend primarily white areas and schools. They just go by the stereotypes that are heard on the streets and the parents have nothing positive to say. Parents just help the immature minds because that’s how the parents were raised.
The problem will never get better. We can talk about it. We can brainstorm solutions. But there are places that will not concure with the rest of the majority. We have our biased minds and in places of the same race things stay the same and they see no need for change. Why? They see no need to change something that does not effect them. Think about it. When we do not see both sides then there is nothing we can do. Now if the entire world would take this soc 119 class then the world might be different.
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I think this is one of the most ridiculous things I have seen in awhile. First of all, having half an arm is not something that is completely rare or something you probably won’t see in your lifetime. Just because disabled people are not as commonly seen on television does not mean that they don’t exist on television or can’t be on television. Are parents really that bad a parenting now that they can’t answer a simple question as, “why does that lady have half an arm?” They will probably see a disabled person some time in their childhood, so it is better to explain it to them at home then in front of the disabled person out in public, especially these people that apparently can’t seem to answer it and will need a couple tries to find the right words. I completely agree with Carrie when she says if the children are old enough to answer the question they are old enough to hear the response. I feel there is nothing wrong with Carrie being on this children’s show and it is ridiculous that parents are actually complaining about it. Wake up; you can’t shelter your children from everything in the world.
It is hard to say whether this would happen in the United States because I don’t think we have come across this issue before, but I think the only people that would complain about it would be those strong minded people all the way to the left or the right. As Americans we are encouraged to speak our mind and it seems someone always has something to say. However, I do not think the majority of people would see this as a problem. One thing I was taught as a child was everyone is different and I think having a disabled person on a children’s show will help the child to not judge people at an early age, which will make them a better person when they are older. I feel we tend to “set standards of normalcy and walk through the world with those standards lighting our path” based on the people we surround ourselves with. For example, if you surround your children in a non-diverse community where everyone seems “perfect”, everything is going to be out of the norm for those children. Although, if they are introduced to children of different races and abilities they will not only gain more knowledge, but they will be well-rounded. Having a disability doesn’t mean they should be rejected or treated any different than anyone else. We seriously need to get over these discriminations.
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First, let me start by saying that from what I can tell by the story, whether this was an American or British TV show is that there are many many ignorant and disgusting people in the world today. Hopefully, this is an isolated incident by just a few people, but if that was the truth, I don’t believe that we would be having as big of a discussion as there seems to be going on. As a child, I was immediately exposed to persons with disabilities. My mom is a Special Ed teacher and my best friend throughout my childhood was confined to a wheelchair with the disease muscular dystrophy. So, from the get go, I was exposed to what I believed to be normal, I think many other people are afraid of what they do not know or what they cannot understand. These parents who had the nerve to complain about this are the ones who have been stuffed up their whole lives and who cannot understand what kind of exposure they missed as children. As children, they never understood, or rather were never taught the un-kown and how to deal with it, actually not deal with it, but embrace it. These people should realize that their children need to be introduced to what they might find as scary or not normal at an early age. What they do not know is what will scare them the most and if their parents are to shallow and self centered to not expose them and teach them about others and the differences there are, then I can only feel sorry for them and the way that they will view the world. It is the job of parents to educate their children and to quell their fears. In this regards, if there is something different out in the world that they are not teaching their children about, then it is a shame and they are not fit to be parents. Children know when something is different and they know when they are being sheltered and if their parents don’t want them to know about something, then they will assume that that something is a bad thing. In reality, there is much to learn from people with disabilities and it only takes one person to change the mind of someone as ignorant as these parents. I wish that they could have the experiences and share the friendships that I experienced with my friends who had disabilities. It makes me angry that these people can be so stupid. Open your eyes and look around. You might just learn something that will change your views forever.
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Coming from a girl who grew up in a town with a LOT of complaining moms and dads, a reaction like the ones of some of Britain’s citizens did not necessarily astonish me, but it did disgust me. Obviously being a 19 year old college student, I don’t watch children’s television shows, but the last I can remember, there weren’t many disabled people on them. However, shows like Sesame Street and Mr. Rogers did preach acceptance of everyone, whether they were similar to you or different.
When I first saw the video clip of Cerrie on the children’s show, I thought to myself “that’s interesting and I haven’t really seen too much of that on the television before, but cool.” What baffles me is that some people have the audacity to even think thoughts like “oh my lord! What a horrific sight for my children to see! They must be so scared!” Would it really hurt their children to see someone who is different from them? They will likely encounter people with disabilities in their lives, so why not expose them earlier to the differences in the world? But Cerrie really isn’t different, she’s just missing one forearm; she is still a person and gets things done, but maybe just in a different way. Some people just do not know how to leave well enough alone.
I have never been the kind of person to say “ballsy” things to people, but honestly, who in their right mind would complain about their children possibly being scared of a woman with only one arm? The woman, Cerrie, on the children’s show was right about children being very inquisitive. They obviously would ask why she only has one arm, but after children get their answer, they are onto the next thing. Children are not born with a fear of the unknown, but they learn it from their primary caregivers. So the only reason kids would be scared of a person with a disability would be because their parents or caregiver taught them to be.
Even after hearing about this disturbing case of prejudice in Britain, I still think the Brits are on the same level of “advanced” thinking that Americans are. There will always be really stupid, narrow-minded, moronic people out there. There are definitely people in the United States who would complain about something like this, or just even think the same types of thoughts, but maybe they just haven’t had the opportunity to whine yet. Maybe it is also because there are very few disabled people on television today. Perhaps this is where America needs to step it up…stop being afraid of the “unknown,” or the more peculiar aspects of life and embrace them for all to see and to learn about.
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The fact that parents do not want their children to watch this television program because they fear that their children may be afraid or scared of this woman is completely absurd. Children need to be exposed to people of diverse cultures and backgrounds. This woman’s disability makes up her background; it is a major part of her background. Her disability has been with her her entire life. Why would we limit her possibilities and tell her that she cannot host the children show because children may be afraid of her. Hasn’t it already crossed our minds that every time she is in the public eye she is being looked at because she is different than what we are used to? She constantly receives criticism because of people’s ignorance and because they have not had enough exposure to people with disabilities. This woman did not ask to have a physical disability; why should she be taken off of the television show because of this? If children are exposed to people with disabilities they will be less likely to react the way their parents are reacting. Let’s be honest, it is the parents who are concerned here. It is not the children who are saying to their parents that they are scared of the woman; it is the parents who are afraid that their children will be afraid. This is the actual problem here: the ignorance of the parents trying to pass off their own fears onto their children.
When I was in grade school my physical education teacher also had a physical disability. She was in a car accident, was not wearing her seat belt and they had to amputate her arm. Being able to interact with her on a daily basis provided me with the exposure I needed to function in society and not be an ignorant individual. Mrs. Bills was able to tie her own shoes, drive a car, have children, eat lunch with us and even play basketball with us at recess. She was a completely functioning member of society; her disability did not limit her possibilities. Children need exposure; taking this woman off of the television show because of her disability will hurt the children in the end.
Would this happen in the United States? I highly doubt that removing this woman from her spot as a host of this children’s program would be accepted in the United States. It could happen, but she would also receive million among millions of dollars for this. It is blatant discrimination. As I say this though, I cannot remember any television shows or movies that I have come across where there is a person with a disability present in the cast. When there is a character in a movie that has a disability, it is usually used to poke fun of or to display them as scary; maybe this is where the parents are getting this fear-the fear that they are afraid their children will have-from the movies.
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Sherrell Obaji
Sam Richards – Soc 119
Due: 4/3/09
For the Sake of the Children, Please Keep the Disabled in the Closet!
Surprisingly, I think Americans will be more accepting of having a disable actor or actress on television, because there is more diversity in America than any other country so seeing a woman without arms is no different.
I feel as though the people that were interviewing her really didn’t take the interview seriously. Yes, they had to remain professional while asking her the questions, but if you carefully look at their body language it saying something else.
In my opinion, I don’t think society can accept obesity, disable, or anything else that is out of the normal; individuals of this natural are always taking being taken as a joke, because it’s not enough people that’s on television that doesn’t fit the seize 0 or disable. I must admit I’m very impress with the way she handle herself. She was very confident and I thought everything she said was very interested. Despite what people have to say about a disable person being on television, I think she will be great for veiwers, I think she will make an excellent role model for other disable people.
Personal Opinion:
I must admit when I first read the article I was completely in stock with the whole idea with adults actually insinuating that children should not see a disable person on television; I thought that was really unintelligent. Parents shelter their children too much, when a child is exposed to different things especially people from different back- grounds they can help the child prepare for the future. Showing a disable actor or actress on television can help children have a better understanding of other disable children they may come across; particularly when they enter high school, they will be going to school with children from all ethnicities. To avoid any embarrassment, children have to learn the nature of different forms of individuals.
In 2008, my friend was diagnosed with a Learning Disability condition by the Cedar Clinic. The Office of Disability Service (ODS) has most of her information on record (for questions). She knows how to manage her time and when it comes to studying for her class material she is great at it. Some of the reasons for her unsatisfactory when it comes to grades is not because of her lack of studying or attending classes. She studies very hard for her classes, and all her professors will agree. She works very hard to make good grades, she is extremely career oriented; every semester she does her very best to have weekly meetings with her professors relating to class and grades. My point is she has a disability and she is able to function just like everyone else, so you should justice a book by it cover!!
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I found the video and the reactions of having a disabled person on the television appalling. I don’t think that it matters it was in the United States or Britain, but the fact that this interview actually had to take place because of parents complaining. That’s really just ridiculous. If anything I say that the woman on the children’s show was an inspiration, she is an inspiration to both children with disabilities and children without. She shows and proves that children with disabilities can grow up to be heroes and successful. The woman on the television show was perfectly normal, and it gives a hope to any child feeling discouraged or humiliated for having a disability, that they can overcome it and grow up to be great men and women, or the host of a children’s show. For children without disabilities, this woman shows them that those with disabilities are normal. Just because they were born without a limb or something else does not make them not human. The children’s show host proves that. In fact it could make those without an arm like her cool. If children look up to her, they learn that they can look up to anyone with a disability. Taking that away from them is terrible. The parents are hiding these children from the world. If they do not see this now, when they do, how would they react? There is no need for the children to fear this. I understand curiosity, and that is normal, but fear is not. This show teaches children how to react. Why would a parent not want that? I guess I just don’t understand. I also really don’t know if the United States would complain about this. I would hope we wouldn’t, and I would think not, but there is always some person out there that believes different. If this is already an issue, then it would be right to be raised and discussed, but if it is not an issue, if the United States is past this, then I do not see a point in making it an issue. I do believe that America as a whole would back this woman up. It just the sensible thing. A woman with a disability would teach children about people with disabilities through her actions. How can that be a bad thing? Again, I just don’t see where these parents were even coming from. Do they want their children to grow up not knowing anything of the world? Do they want these children thinking that everyone is just a clone of one another? That everyone is the same? How would these parents feel if one of their children had a disability? I bet that would change their view. They probably didn’t even think of that.
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I find this incident that occurred in England to be neither shocking nor original. It is really rather a sad statement to occupy, but what fuels the statement is even sadder. The fact that I have seen or heard about enough whacked people in the world doing whacked things that people protesting a television host because she only has one arm doesn’t even surprise me anymore. It is just recently in my lifetime that I have begun to discover and accept just how dissimilar and absurd people’s ideals and beliefs can be compared to mine. That doesn’t necessary mean that I believe my ideals and beliefs are right and theirs are wrong, although most of the time I do feel this way, it just means I find it hard to believe that people can have such different beliefs from mine. I think that I was raised to have a pretty open and accepting mind of the world and people around me, and I guess I have always figured the rest of our culture shared the same open-mindedness, but this article, along with television reports, and first hand experience is making me think that I guessed wrong. I supposed I have lived a pretty sheltered life, because it is only recently that I have begun to see how many crazies there really are out there. These people in England taking the time out of their day to write and send letters and e-mails complaining about a television show host with one arm definitely fit into this category, “crazies”. Instead of taking all that time to write these bogus e-mails and letters, why not take that same time to explain to your children that it is ok for people to be missing limbs or to be deaf, or blind. They are going to experience people with disabilities their whole life, and starting to understand and see people with disabilities at a younger age, can only help them to understand that these people are just like them. Not only will a nice and youthful television host with one arm show the children watching the program that this lady is no different personality wise than she would be with both of her arms, but it also teaches children not to take things for granted. It is really a win, win situation. And something even sadder than all this, is that I think if this children’s program aired in America, the same letters and e-mails would have been sent out. Ignorant people exist everywhere, they always have existed, and they always will exist. But just as they express their beliefs, it is equally if not more important for all the level headed human beings out there to at least try and tell them that their whacked and need to do some serious mind expanding. Most likely this will do nothing but piss an ignorant person off, but every once in a wile it might just help them get out of that “crazies” category.
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All right, so check this out. One of the questions was what would happen in America if a one armed person was on a kids show. Well quite frankly I do not know because it’s never happened before. With that being said, back in the early 1900’s they practiced Eugenics, which is the study of or belief in the possibility of improving the qualities of the human species or a human population, especially by such means as discouraging reproduction by persons having genetic defects or presumed to have inheritable undesirable traits. So we at one time did this. And in some cases we still do. Parents that both carry traits to certain diseases have to decide to have the child or not, knowing they may give birth to a child with disability. Now though, when that happens we take care of them, if parents want to have a kid we let them, even if the chances are not good for having a normal child. And what is normal now. First off, kids with autism are on the rise. Who is to say that autism isn’t supposed to be normal? Also, genetically, normal is having 6 fingers, not 5. Back to the one armed person. There are three different points I want to make here. First, when I was a kid my best friend was a huge black kid, the nicest you will ever meet. Never noticed his skin until I got older. The point is that if kids see this lady with one arm, they are not going to question it. They are going to say “hey she’s different, I wonder what other cool stuff she’s going to do on the show”. This might be a good thing, because kids will be more accepting of people with disabilities. The second point I want to make is this. TV in general is becoming more acceptable of disabilities. Malcolm in the Middle had a main character in a wheel chair, and Dragon Tales, a show for preschoolers, has a wheelchair character. In France there is a girl in a wheelchair in the Muppets. So yeah, they exist, but not any character with one arm. It’s a double standard though. When that pro surfer girl was 14 and lost her arm, all people talked about was seeing her surf with only one arm, and she was on tons of television networks like good morning America. Maybe we accept a one armed person if they were not born that way. Maybe we still have some eugenic thoughts in our minds. To be honest I was caught off guard by seeing her, but I would not stop my kid from watching the show, and it would become normal. I would rather my kid have to deal with that then some of the stuff that Ren and Stimpy did. All in all, it would do more good for kids and parents and society then it would hurt. Also, to the parents out there who bitched about it, just have your kids watch something else then. The network is not going to care about losing 25 people.
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I cannot believe that this is something that even needs to be discussed. I cannot believe that people felt the need to write in complaining about this actress and her missing arm and the fact that it is or it might scare their children. Many people were born with disabilities and many people will acquire them throughout their life. It is part of parenting to have that conversation with your children because it is only part of life that they will one day come in contact with a person with one of these disabilities. If a child does happen to be scared by someone with a missing limb, it is the parent’s responsibility to talk to the child about why they may be missing the limb and why it is absolutely nothing to be afraid off.
I cannot say whether or not this would be an issue in our country. I am not aware of any similar situations where a children’s TV show or movie has someone with such a disability. I am sure that there are people in this country that would make the same claim and have the same concerns of their children being afraid because there are ignorant parents in all parts of the world. Whether or not they would make an issue of this concern I am not sure either. I cannot honestly say that I would be surprised if such an issue arose nor can I say that I was completely surprised by the issue taking place in England.
Knowing how critical and closed-minded people can be, I admire the British actress for having a career where she is in the spot light and also for not wearing a prosthetic because she finds them uncomfortable and does not feel the need to put her viewers at ease by doing something she does not want to.
I wish that on one of the episodes of this British television show that this actress’ disability could be discussed so that she could explain it to the children, although I am sure that would cause just as much of an issue, if not more. Children need to be spoken to about these issues though and if parents are too irresponsible to take action, then it needs to be addressed somewhere. Although, for the children who do not yet take notice of such things, I can see how a parent may feel as thought the issue is being brought up prematurely for their child’s case and they as a parent want to be the one to discuss the issue with them, so a conversation could be had and questions answered.
I would obviously hope that such an issue would not be made of in our country, but I would not be surprised if it was.
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I do not put the idea out of my mind that this could happen in the United States. I do not think I can imagine a network here receiving that many complaints about the issue either, but I do think that it would be brought up in conversation amongst parents and friends. Although I think that we have definitely come a little farther on the issue of accepting disabilities, I also think that there is a little component of taboo. I believe that we have learned that disability is something that should not be discussed because we think that it may be offensive to that disabled person. We are also raised with the thought that just because they are missing a limb, that does not make them different as a human soul. This is something that I completely agree with. Even though each of us as individuals, have different opinions regarding this, overall we are taught that this is an improper issue to bring up. Similarly, I am very surprised that people were uncomfortable around someone with only one hand because the fact of the matter is, they are still a person with feelings and they still are capable of thinking and speaking. So other than the obvious physical features that may be missing, what makes them so different? I do not believe that normalcy should be subject to physical appearance but rather to our thoughts and our minds. I am not sure of why people picture normalcy as also pertaining to having all your physical limbs, but maybe it is because they believe that these people cannot go about certain things because of their disability. But in reality, this is the total opposite. People with disabilities still do everyday things; they just have to go about doing them in a different way than most people. I think the people who have complained are just very ignorant and have a skewed and false definition in their minds of what normal is. I also think it is silly that British viewers believe their children will be scared of this woman. If anything, I think young children are some of the most accepting people. Instead of being scared, I strongly believe that they would be more intrigued and inclined to ask more questions about what having a disability means and what it is. As Americans, we may also be exposed to more disabled people being on television. I know that I have personally seen many disabled people on television talk shows, news stories and even some television shows. I feel as if seeing this on a kids television show would not surprise me. I believe that most of America feels the same way. I do not think it would be surprising or stir up nearly as much emotion and complaints as it did in the UK, but I also do not think that it would be completely ignored. I think that this issue would just be discussed more privately instead of making it public through network television.
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I know that Sam is very proud that this story of discrimination is not occurring in the United States but in Great Britain but I would not be just so proud yet because I think that this same form of discrimination would happen in the United State. I mean if you would ask someone that has been born with some form of a disability was once called an inappropriate name or once was discriminated and not granted the same opportunity as someone that does not have the kind of disability. People that suffer from a physical or a mental disability are constantly starred upon by bystanders just because there are different then normal. Normalcy has become a major part of our society. There have been some cases in our society of children that have been born with a disability that the parents did not want a disable child and will send them to an orphanage. There are people that are afraid that their child may be born with a disability that they rather genetic make an embryo by picking the genetic makeup they want their child to have compared to creating a child naturally. There are also people that get genetics tests of their embryo and abort the children if they will be disabled. I have also over-heard my roommate’s boyfriend make horrible remarks about people that have Down syndrome and say that they should not be able to come out in public because they are a disgraced to this society. I mean I personal think that this guy is not right in the head and is horrible to actually think that people talk like this about someone that he does not know. But just because someone is not normal does not give a person the power to discriminate against them.
I mean we cannot say that we are better then Britain because in all of the news station that I have seen we do not have a news reporter that has a disability that can be seen on the camera. I mean for the most part the news reporters are physical pretty or handsome white men or women. I think that it was a great think that Britain placed this individual on public television because this showed that they were not discrimination against this girl just because of her disability. And for all those parents that wrote letters to the news station about this reporter they should not be complaining about her but they should see this as a teaching opportunity to their children. They should teach them that everyone is different. If they would teach their children about this news reporters problem then the child would not be scared. I also think that the people that wrote the letters should be embarrassed that they felt this way about this lady.
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It makes me sad to say that “For the Sake of the Children, Please Keep the Disabled in the Closet,” does not really surprise me all that much. What most parents think they’re “protecting” their children from is really only providing them with an unrealistic world and injustice. It seems that in today’s society, parents are covering up what they feel is abnormal and unfit to be publicized by labeling it as a threat to their children. But in reality, children are the ones who accept difference and uniqueness, and only simply question what it is that they’re seeing that is unlike something of their own (for instance a person with one arm), whereas parents are the misdemeanant ones. By shielding their children from the inimitable and distinctive people throughout the world, they are only making their children just as ignorant and incepting as they themselves have become. I think that saying a child would be frightened by a person missing an arm is a little far-fetched. I believe that the only major emotion that would arouse from this would be curiosity, which is completely normal amongst children. In no way does this female show host have any qualities resembling that of something frightening, such as a “monster.” She is only missing an arm—disabilities surround our everyday lives and only take a few minutes to explain to a child in order for them to be understanding. I think that this issue has a lot to do with the media as well. Everybody compares themselves to the “perfect” and “flawless” actors, etc. that they see on television. God forbid somebody comes along who isn’t “perfect” and immediately complaints are being sent in. As for what I think Americans’ input on this issue would be—well I think it would still stir up some concerns, but I don’t think it would be half as bad as their British have made it out to be. In my opinion, Americans find the utmost ridiculous things to complain about, so yes, this disabled woman would have been somewhat of an issue still here in the United States. But I believe that Americans are somewhat more accepting and exposed to issues such as this one, whereas the British have only become susceptible to it. I think that having a disabled show host is in fact a wonderful idea. Children need to learn that it’s okay to admire someone different than most individuals, and that not everyone in this world is lucky enough to have 10 fingers, 10 toes, 2 hands, etc. This is fact teaches the moral of being grateful for what you have. This is definitely one of the most absurd issues I’ve read about this semester, and I can say that I truly am disgusted by it.
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I can’t speak for how I believe Americans would feel about this subject because we live in a country with a ton of diversity, therefore, people all over will have different opinions. I can say personally that I am distraught over the whole situation. One person’s commment says that they believe not teaching thier kids about disabilities, and their exisitence all over the world, they are doing them an injustice. I couldn’t agree more. Coming from a completely white area, I met tons of people that were disabled. I actually dated a guy for a while, who was paralyzed from the waist down. Being that I grew up around it, and new what it was, I knew how to act and show the same respect to persons with disabilities as I would anyone else. However, the one thing I didn’t learn, is just how comfortable most people are with their disabilities, and how they try to make the people they are around comfortable with it as well. The guy I dated in the wheelchair was completely comfortable with himself, and wanted everyone around him to be comfortable, so he would crack jokes all the time. Because I was taught about, and brought up around people with these disabilities, I learned how to act and react. Kids that are being brought up not knowing anything about people with a disability won’t know how to react when they are finally placed in the real world where their parents don’t control their every move. At some point in every childs life, they will end up on their own. It is the parents resposibility to prepare their children for every situation they will encounter, no matter how small. To keep your kids for experiencing something as simple as someone with a disability is scary, only because I can’t imagine what else these parents are trying to shield their kids from. It makes you wonder if the kids will actually ever be able to survive on their own, let alone think for themselves.
I guess to think about what Americans would say, could go any different direction. There will be tons of people across the country that agree with me and Sam, but then there will always be the select few that do the same thing that is happening here in this clip. There will always be people who are so close-minded, and unable to accept change and diversity, and the people that are different, that they keep their kids sheltered in a little bubble. And there is absolutely nothing we can do about it. I guess the best solution is to keep ourselves well informed of the change and how it should be just as accepted as anything else, and hope to instill those same values and understandings into everyone around us, whether it be a friend, spouse or a child. We have the power to make the difference, and even if it means standing alone, we should stand and fight for what we believe in. All it takes is changing one person’s mind to start the chain. You do that, and you have succeeded.
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First, I think that these people need to stop being so ignorant. I could not believe that they wrote to the show with this woman on it, to complain about her disability. A parent needs to explain many things to their children. I think about all of the random questions that children ask adults. For example, when a child asks about a different race or ethnicity, I definitely agree that to be a parent, one needs to be able to answer these questions. Children are very inquisitive about things. Why should we stop them from understanding? If they can learn about difficult topics early in life, it may be easier to discuss them later. This woman has every right to be on that television show. There should be no questions asked. I think it is rude to complain to the station because she has a disability. I do think it is good that when children ask her about her disability, she explains it to them. It seems that in our society, we definitely see certain things as the norm. I am really not sure why that happens either. There are disabilities everywhere. People are different in so many ways. It seems like that should be the norm, but to ignorant people, it is obviously not. People with disabilities are getting through life just like everyone else, just maybe with a little help. For example, a person with only one leg, would need a wheelchair to do certain things that a person with two legs could do. So many people take such things for granted. Therefore, I think explaining certain situations like this to children could help them start to see how lucky they are and appreciate the things they have. Even certain things like disabilities could open up an adult’s eyes and show them how much they need to start appreciating. I know that I do not thank God everyday for the ability to walk. It just seems natural. But this article really made me to start to think about the important things I have.
In all honesty, I do not think that there would be any difference between American and British people. In such a big society, there are always people who are trying to speak up when they do not think something is acceptable. I definitely think disabilities, like different races, are a difficult topic for people to discuss. But it seems like a different story when you can write instead of speak. I think that if these people who wrote to the show were asked to come on the show and talk about it, there would be some issues. When people can hide their faces, I think the truth really comes out. I think that it’s really sad that there are still people who think this woman should not be allowed on the television. It just made me mad when a person wrote in that the woman might scare some children with her disability. It just really shows how ignorant people really are and how much people still need to learn.
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I am at an obvious disagreement with the parents and viewers that have expressed their concern, apprehension and discontent about the show’s new character, Burnell. I feel as though there is no better way to introduce disabilities to a child. Burnell’s character on the show is one of kindness, happiness, calmness and joyfulness. By exposing the child to someone of disabilities portraying these characteristic traits, it shows and teaches them about disabilities with positive connotation. As a result, at an early age, children can learn to feel comfortable being in the presence of someone with a disability. On the playground and in the classroom their reaction will be more positive because they will be educated. I personally cannot seem to find the negative in the situation. Maybe we would all be better off if this is how we first learned about disabilities. A child exposed to a woman without an arm on this television show is a lot more beneficial than having the child walk down the street and see a man begging for money without a leg.
I cannot see a child being frightened by this warm and loving woman. A child’s reaction will only mimic that of their parents. If the adults maturely and responsibly explain the Burnell’s situation, then the child should only walk away with a bigger heart and greater understanding. Another lesson they may take away is the value of being grateful for things you possess that others may not have been as fortunate to be blessed with.
These vulnerable children need to learn at an early age that it is absolutely and perfectly acceptable for someone to act differently than them or possess a physical characteristic unlike their own. If they consider these people to be like Burnell, only positive reactions will stem. When faced with children on the playground that look like Burnell, they will automatically learn not to stop, stare and act uncomfortably in their presence because they will realize that this person is actually no different than them.
A lot of the time we have a strong sense of curiosity that can lead to discomfort. As we become more educated and exposed to people with disabilities, our heart grows and there no longer exists that sense of uneasiness in their presence, instead we are more accepting (as we should be with anyone different than ourselves).
Honestly, I believe that Americans would have reacted in the same manner as the angry, rude, and ignorant parents did in England. Why should we expect anything more of them considering they way they react towards all minorities? People all over the world would have a problem with anything out of the norm if it affected them or their children in such a way. It is saddening that there exists no solution to society’s lack of acceptance for others.
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After watching the video that accompanied the “For the Sake of the Children, Please Keep the disabled in the Closet” blog, I was really disturbed by the fact that people in England are causing such a stir over this TV host. Yes, obviously she has something different about her because most people on TV have two hands, but she is still a person who deserves the same rights and respect as everyone else. I truly admire her for overcoming her disability and not letting it get in the way of what she wants to do in life. In the video, she mentions how she opts not to wear a prosthetic arm because she is content with the way she is and does not need something like that to get in the way.
The fact that British parents do not want to expose their children to people with disabilities is ridiculous. Parents have nothing to fear and should instead be teaching and explaining to their kids the different types of people in the world, whether they are disabled, of a different race, religion, sexuality, etc. By bringing these kids up in such an isolated world without exposure to things or people out of the norm will greatly affect the people they will become – which leads to hate groups and people who avoid others simple because they are not like them
If a TV show host for an American children’s show was disabled I actually feel as though more people would be accepting and understanding of the issue, which is somewhat surprising. I think America is more inclined to see people with disabilities as equals and not look down upon a TV show or television network for hiring a host of a children’s show who has one arm. Kids are just as likely to walk down the street with their parents and see a one armed person or someone in a wheelchair and ask their parents why they are different, so what is the point in sheltering children when it comes to what TV shows they watch?
In all, children are likely to be confused and ask questions, but that is natural because they are learning and growing. Disabled people should not be shunned for life and go without jobs in the public eye just because they were born with an unfortunate ailment. Everyone should have the same rights and if people truly have a problem with exposing their children to a disabled TV host then don’t let your kids watch the show, there are plenty of other children’s shows out there. But I hope these parents realize that they are sheltering their children from the real world and they are not benefitting the growth and knowledge of their child at all.
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My initial reaction to the video interviewing Cerrie Burnell was who cares about a few complaints? Why would you want to spend your time making it aware that people made negative comments on her disability? This is the only reason more complaints were made after the story broke out. They should not have focused on the complaints made but her success as a host with a disability. This is something I do believe Americans have achieved. I have always felt a strong support for people with disabilities. And if Americans with disabilities have achieved something they are praised for it. If Americans were conducting this issue I believe they would have asked questions about Burnell’s disability, if it affected her work in any way or the way she thinks about her work, instead of asking if she is hurt by the complaints.
Parents have a right to not expose their child to certain aspects of society as they grow up. However, I believe a good parent would want to expose their child to diversity and teach them that everyone is different and that does not make them any less of a person. At least that is what I hope to instill into my child as they grow up. I wonder why these parents complain about a woman with no arm and if they have ever made a complaint to a violent children’s show? What made them see this woman with one arm a bigger threat to their child? I believe children are more accepting when they are younger and parents should not have to worry about what their child thinks about a woman with one arm. I think it goes along with what Sam said about normalcy.
I admit that I will feel uncomfortable around someone with a disability. I was just never around people with disabilities growing up and I have grown to think I am supposed to act a certain way around them. When I look at it now I think I’m crazy for thinking like that. Our society has this standard or normalcy that we have grown accustomed to and when something does not fall into that standard we freeze and do not know how to act or feel. At this point of my life I should hope to look beyond the standards of our society and be comfortable around anything different because I know we are not all the same. The last think I just want to say is I think Cerrie Burnell is a good role model for people with disabilities. She knows people are going to feel uncomfortable but she has overcome that. She enjoys her job and must being doing well if she is still a host.
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I would like to say that I could not see Americans acting this way if we were exposed to a similar situation but in all honesty, are we that different from our neighbors across the pond? I think Americans are more advanced than many people in the world but I have a feeling there might be just as much of public response as there was in Great Britain. I always figured Great Britain and America were quite comparable. I think it’s funny that some of the responses are generating so much American Pride. We are getting puffy-chested over nothing because 1: we have no idea how Americans would react and 2: even if there was a favorable response from Americans, there is no reason to pat ourselves on the back. 25 complaints on a television show are not that many. It is such a small percentage that it should probably be overlooked. I do agree with Sam, it is pretty bad that there would be such complaints but like I’ve said in every blog, people are ignorant. The disabled are just as weird and creepy as people in other races (not to me, to the ignorant). It is sad that parents feel the need to shelter their children to the point of raising them narrow mindedly for sure, but I don’t think if we lined up every parent in America next to ones from Great Britain there would be a big difference. In fact, it is almost funny to read how people get all patriotic about this because I am sure if Sam’s post had read something like “It is sad that Great Britianers are so close minded, but what’s worse is Americans…” then all of the responses would be outraged students claiming how ignorant Americans are. I know Sam mentioned he thought it should be illegal to have children before we know what we would say to them when they encounter a human being with only one hand. It made me laugh to see people agree with such an audacious statement. Parents are given little blobs and have complete power to screw them up completely, but who are we to judge the legality of explaining disability? I get sick of reading people’s responses because there is always such an agenda- either just blind agreement or trying to get a response from other people by writing radical responses. I keep reading how terrible things are here, and how embarrassed we are to be Americans etc, and I would like to pose the question: What are any of us doing about it? Some may be activists of sorts but I would bet that as “outraged” all of us are, we do nothing to change. This isn’t to say I disagree with what Sam is saying—because I agree. It just is humorous to see everyone responses looking exactly the same.
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Wow, how unfortunate for those children—such ignorant and uninformed parents they have. I’m also confused as to why anyone would feel uncomfortable around someone else without a limb—in this case, a hand/arm. Everyone is entitled to being uncomfortable in a given situation, but I feel as if it just seems a bit pointless. Pointless, as in, what is being uncomfortable achieving? What is the purpose, what is the function? I don’t understand why the parents wouldn’t simply address their children’s fears and explain that this is NATURE, this is BIOLOGY, this happens. People are born with abnormalities, without choice. I can understand, more so, why a child would be inquisitive or confused about seeing someone with a missing limb, but I can’t understand why a parent would have difficulty explaining the situation. It seems very cowardly to write and send a complaint to the television station. Like, “Look! You made got my child to put me on the spot! How dare,” …right. So, instead of confronting their child’s inquiry, they nullify the real issue and turn to blame someone else. It’s really quite sad.
I don’t know if this would happen in the US. Honestly, I feel like we have are all about pushing the envelope when it comes to the host of characters on our television programs. Not to say we have a super-diverse realm of media or anything, because we don’t. But I feel like, at least with children’s programming, there has been at least one kid in a wheelchair, right? On Barney or something? Maybe Sesame Street? Not sure, I don’t watch that type of stuff anymore for obvious reasons. But I can pretty much remember the common moral of the story that was implied: “Well sweetie, everyone is different and we should accept them for the person they are, not what they look like,”. Maybe I’m glorifying American children’s tv shows, but I think something along the lines of “diversity” was pushed, at least in one episode. Maybe one armed people are “too much”, “too different” for the Brits to handle. Maybe it’d happen in the US, as well. Maybe wheelchairs are too “main stream”. Not sure, to be honest, but I am deeply bewildered as to why these said parents felt the need to extend the issue beyond their home, felt the need to berate the programming company for hiring someone with one arm. How must the actress feel? She says she isn’t that offended, but I would be. People have a right to complain, and they will exercise this right as soon and as often as they can. But, aren’t they stunting their children’s mental capacity for acceptance and growth and awareness? Aren’t they just perpetuating the avoidance of the “abnormal”? I suppose it is their own family’s issues to sort out, but I know my parents would simply explain the REALITY OF LIFE.
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I am not really sure what someone being disabled has to do with race or ethnicity, but anyways I think it would equally be as a big of a deal and as small of deal in the U.S. in the same ways it was in England. It is an insanely small issue, at least formal complaint wise, since only 25 people filed complaints? Out of the thousands to millions who knows how many that actually watch the children’s show that the disabled woman is on. Of course there will always be some rude, stupid, and insensitive people out there, which in itself is not shocking. If everyone accepted everyone else for the way they were then we would not be even discussing this issue right now. It was only made to be a big issue because a news station decided to feature her as a guest and blow it out of proportion. Granted the media does like to take small issues and exaggerate them to get higher ratings, but then the public falsely believe that there must have a been a large enough number of complaints for this story to air in the first place. This is why it also makes complete sense that more people complained after this story aired since they thought there were already a large number of people on their side (the original complainers). So there is something to think about, do more people actually feel that because a person is disabled they should not be a prominent television personality? Were these people from the second round of complaints just quiet at first so as to not be rude? I do not think that a network here airing this story would receive as many complaints, but I am not sure if the story would even be aired in the first place. Just imagining this story being aired on something like Entertainment Tonight would seem somewhat awkward and out of place. I do not think we openly are allowed to discuss questions we might have about disabled people because it would seem ignorant and/or impolite; like the disabled woman said, the only people that approach her with questions are children, and further she does not have a problem explaining to them her situation. To go even further, I do not think we would even have a person with one arm on a television show, or with any other highly visible disability. I am trying to think of even one example and I really cannot. The only time that a disabled person would be featured on a show would be if the show was about a person that had a disability and that was the whole point of the show, and not just a disabled person that happened to be on a show about something else. I am not sure how I feel about this news segment. On one hand, it seems like the network is just exploiting her and making an issue about something that should not be an issue, but on the other hand if it really is an issue that our society has maybe it is good that the public see her so conversation can be had and maybe eventually a better understanding and acceptance can be accomplished.
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