A More Inclusive World

 Isaac Zablocki is Director NY Film Programs, ReelAbilities: Disabilities Film Festival.

 

 As the Special Olympics kicks off in South Korea, I am brought once again to question our standards of inclusivity in America. People with disabilities make up the largest minority in America and intellectual disabilities is the fastest growing percentage of that group among children. In our society, we tend to judge people by subjective standards, like aptitude and exterior beauty, often leaving out those who do not have "standard abilities." We admire and idolize people who are not particularly talented, unique, or outstanding, yet, people with different abilities are hidden from the spotlight -- particularly people with developmental disabilities.