The EDI Committee led a special Assembly to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities

December 4th 2023

The EDI Committee led a special Assembly to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities...

The EDI Committee led a special Assembly to mark International Day of Disabilities which is on 3^rd December. Olly introduced the theme and Eliza explained about the concept of language associated with disabilities. Niko spoke on dwarfism whilst Abby explained sensory disabilities. Holly took the theme of neurodiversity and Will spoke on paralysis. Alexina explained about Amy, a former Priory girl who had her leg amputated due to cancer and died of cancer in 2022. Mrs Simper concluded the Assembly by telling the School about her sister who has Down’s Syndrome and the effect this has had on her family. It was a very educational Assembly which raised awareness and has made the pupils think about different disabilities.

Emily Simper - Deputy Head, Pastoral

Olly
Every year, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) is celebrated on the 3^rd December as a way of promoting equality for people with disabilities in all areas of society. The event was launched in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly. Their aim was to advance disability rights and protect the wellbeing of those with disabilities. Since then, people all across the globe have gathered together to celebrate this special event. According to the World Health Organisation, around 15% of the world’s population is considered to have some form of disability. But, all too often, the needs of people with disabilities are not catered for by the society they live in. This is one of the many reasons why it is so important to observe events like the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. By celebrating this event in school, we can help break down the barriers to inclusion and spread awareness of the struggles faced by those with disabilities. This will, in turn, spur them on to fight for the rights of individuals with disabilities throughout their lives.

Another huge part of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is spreading awareness of the many positive effects of integrating persons with disabilities into society. One of the biggest issues facing those with disabilities in today’s society is marginalisation and exclusion. For a myriad of reasons, those with disabilities are often shut off from key aspects of society, in terms of social circles, workplaces, cultural life and more. This is extremely isolating and can severely affect the mental health of those being excluded. The EDI Committee felt it is important to use this Assembly to educate you all and spread awareness of the different types of disabilities that exist.

Eliza
In figuring out what to title our Assembly today, our EDI committee had a real challenge. We wanted to use words that highlight our differences instead of using the word “Disability”. The word disabled is commonly used to describe individuals with impairments or limitations in various abilities. However, some people prefer alternative terms such as “differently abled” to highlight their capabilities rather than focusing solely on perceived limitations. In the past people used to use words such as handicapped, retarded, spastic - these are now incredibly offensive words and should never be used to refer to anyone whether they have a disability or not. Furthermore, it’s important to know that we might not always know about every kind of difference in the room. People have different experiences and lifestyles and it’s important that we use the correct language that will make everyone feel included as well as respected.

Niko
I stand here before you to talk about a topic that is often misunderstood and misrepresented in our society - Dwarfism. Dwarfism is a medical condition that affects the growth of an individual. It is characterised by short stature, which is usually defined as an adult height of 4 feet 10 inches or less. However, it is important to understand that people with dwarfism are not defined by their condition, but rather by their unique personalities, talents, and contributions to society. Unfortunately, people with dwarfism are often subjected to ridicule, discrimination, and prejudice. They are often portrayed as objects of amusement in popular culture, which only serves to perpetuate negative stereotypes and misconceptions. It is time for us to change this narrative. We need to recognize that people with dwarfism are just like us - they have dreams, aspirations, and goals. They deserve to be treated with respect, dignity, and equality. As a society, we need to work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment for people with dwarfism. This means challenging negative stereotypes, promoting awareness and education, and advocating for their rights.

In conclusion, I would like to mention a person who is a dwarf who has impacted the world, whose name is Peter Dinklage. An American actor who portrayed Tyrion Lannister on the HBO television series Game of Thrones. This just shows that whatever disability a person has does not limit them of the potential that they have to make it in life.

Holly
Neurodiversity is the concept that brain differences are natural variations - not deficits, disorders or impairments. For around 15% of the UK’s population, their differences mean that they may be diagnosed with neurological conditions such as Autism Spectrum Condition, Dyslexia or ADHD. However, no two brains work in the same way and not everyone presents the same symptoms or has the same experiences.

Temple Grandin is an American scientist who’s own experience with autism is the basis for her professional work in human behaviour. She says "the skills people with autism can bring should be nurtured for both their benefit and society’s" and that she likes the "really logical" way that she thinks and it "blows her mind how irrational human beings are". A quote from Michael Phelps, the most successful Olympic swimmer in history, who was diagnosed with ADHD when he was a child reads "there will be obstacles, there will be doubters, there will be mistakes, but with hard work, there are no limits".

Microsoft have a ‘Neurodiversity Hiring Program’ on the belief that diverse teams positively impact their company culture and working environment, aiming to provide training and support needed for career growth and success. Due to their individual strengths, neurodivergent employees often possess highly desirable skills and attributes that can encourage creativity, new ideas and fresh perspectives in the wider community.Although many neurodiverse conditions may be classified as a disability under the ‘Equalities Act’, for many people neurodivergence can bring opportunities and unique talents, as well as challenges. The language and labels we use are crucial in building a positive, inclusive culture where all people are valued and supported.

Abby
I’m going to explain some sensory disabilities to you. Within the UK there are 12 million deaf people which is 1 in 6 of the population. In 2021, Rose Ayling-Ellis was the first deaf contestant on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. Rose went onto win the competition, becoming a role model for the deaf community and broke-down barriers for future generations. In the UK, more than 2 million people are living with sight loss. Of these, around 340,000 are registered as blind or partially sighted. Last year King’s supported The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association charity. If you are interested in getting involved and educating yourselves further then there are a variety of resources on their website from free training on learning how to sighted guide, to opportunities to campaign with them for the rights of people with sight loss. Being deaf or blind has a significant impact on a person’s ability to navigate a society and healthcare system designed by and for hearing and sighted people. Therefore, the EDI committee are encouraging you to become more aware and educated in order to help remove barriers that impact on the health and wellbeing of others.

Will
I want emphasize the critical importance of raising awareness about paralysis and amputation. These conditions not only affect individuals physically but also have profound emotional and social implications. It is essential to recognize that individuals with paralysis or amputation possess incredible resilience and strength. By increasing awareness, we can create a more empathetic and accommodating society that strives to eliminate barriers to accessibility. We had a talk before half-term from Talan Skeels-Piggins who is a Children’s Author, a double 600cc Motorcycle World Champion and Winter Paralympian - as part of the British Team alpine skier. He was a Royal Navy fighter controller and PE teacher who was paralysed from the chest down following a motorcycle accident in March 2003, which shattered his spine and broke his neck. In his talk he taught us about resilience and how to really push your boundaries and not to be held back by anything. By fostering understanding and compassion within our communities, we can break down stigmas surrounding paralysis and amputation, promoting inclusivity and support for those navigating these challenges.

Alexina
In March 2022, Priory House lost an Old Brutonian, Amy Williams. Amy had been fighting cancer for a number of years and died when it spread into her lungs. Whilst at King’s, Amy found out she had cancer in her L6^th year and had to have her leg amputated. This was a real struggle for Amy as it limited what she could do. However, the King's Bruton community and Amy made the best of it - a room was refurbished on the ground floor of Priory House with an en-suite for Amy to make it easier for her using a wheelchair in House and to avoid stairs. She would get around School on a mobility scooter to get to her lessons via the High Street. Ramps were built so she could go to 6^th Form Club. Amy did not let her new “disability” define her instead she made the best out of every situation. Amy Williams should be an inspiration to anyone with a disability showing that it does not define us, and King's Bruton helped her to be this inspirational person.

Mrs Simper
I have some understanding of disability as my younger sister has Downs Syndrome. This occurs when a baby is born with an extra chromosone, it happens by chance, is not hereditary and results in the person having learning difficulties and often physical problems too. DS is often also associated with very loving individuals who adore music and thrive on fun. Sadly, it can also mean a shortened life span - principally as a result of heart or other physical problems associated with this syndrome.

Sometimes when we reflect on disability we focus on the sufferer, and rightly so, however, it is also salutary to remember how families are affected when one of their members has a disability. I am very aware how it can affect the life of siblings and parents as they and their child grow older and parents are perhaps less able to provide the necessary care for their now ageing child. Educational opportunities cease at age 19 and what does the young adult do then? In a society stretched to the limits with all kinds of social problems facilities for those with profound learning disabilities can seem like a Cinderella service. My sister is lucky - she lives at home with my parents, is very much at the centre of our family, her health is generally reasonable supported by various biologic drugs; she goes to college 2 days a week and to a workshop for the other days, but this is not to underestimate the worries and anxieties for us all that often occur.

I have learnt a lot from having a disabled sister. She can bring out kindness in the most unlikely people, and I have learnt that everyone has a contribution to make in life. Susanna is very limited academically - she cannot read or write but her emotional intelligence is second to none. She has taught us patience and love and she exercises her own ministry of gentleness and compassion and she certainly knows how to enjoy a party!

Therefore to conclude - hopefully this Assembly has helped you understand disability more, and ultimately, with the right support, every disabled person can have a rich, fulfilling life and feel part of their communities.