I decided to become a social worker and ADA coordinator because I wanted to work with individuals with disabilities on independent living. I wanted to work with people on self-confidence teaching them that they CAN be contributing members of society. Disabilities have always been a big part of my life. Not only do I use a wheelchair, but I have learning disabilities and epilepsy.
When it comes to enabling people with disabilities to be contributing members of society you don't need to think of just equality. It isn't just making sure places have ramps etc. It is both disability equity and equality.
Equality is having the same resources or opportunities for everyone, no matter what their individual needs are. Equity is understanding that there are individual differences and providing resources to meet those specific needs. Disability equality is ensuring that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as people without disabilities. Disability equity addresses barriers and provides additional support to those with disabilities. Equality might lead to unequal outcomes if individuals have different situations. Equity seeks to achieve fair outcomes. Equality might mean everyone receives the same things whether they have a disability or not. Equity would provide additional resources enabling equal outcomes. Equity may require listening to individuals with disabilities to understand their unique challenges and needs. Understand that equity doesn't mean a person with a disability isn't looking for handouts. They want the same opportunity as everyone else.
