Today I read a very interesting article in the Guardian http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/nov/09/disability-hate-speech-online?fb=native&CMP=FBCNETTXT9038 called "Disability hate speech has no place anywhere - not even online". The article referred to Ricky Gervais's constant use of the the word "mong" on twitter and the abuse receive online by disability campaigners from internet "trolls".
I agree with the entire article, hatred toward people based on disabilities is not acceptable and the abuse received can make their lives a misery. This is also happening at a time when benefits are being cut for the most vulnerable in society. The abuse also promotes the already prevalent prejudice that is faced on a daily basis. However, I can't help but think that the article offers no solutions, yes most of us realise that abuse is bad - but what exactly can be done about it?
I think campaigning for education and understanding of disabilities is a must, but some may now be too scared to carry on campaigning since they don't want to receive abuse. However, I think the more that stand up against injustice the more that can be done, depending on the level of abuse, it can be dealt with by the authorities. We shouldn't let these online abusers hinder the good work of disabilities rights campaigners.
I am sure there are other solutions out there, I will probably post more on this topic in the future.
Buddy, what does "mong" mean. Really, I clueless.
ReplyDeleteKriss
It's a term that was used to describe people with down's syndrome, it has been used as a derogatory term.
ReplyDelete