By: Christopher Vreugdenhil
Staff-Writer
On Oct. 18, new club Diversity in Disability hosted a disability immersion event, “Walk in My Shoes.” Attendees were able to experience visual impairments through glasses, hear different kinds of tinnitus, experience simulated test-taking anxiety and hear from wheelchair users.
Attending the event helped me understand the hurdles that others have to overcome and what day-to-day life is like for people with various disabilities. Events like this can help us create a world that is safe and accessible for everyone in the future. I also think it is important to note that this event was not to create pity for people with disabilities, but instead to foster understanding and respect for other perspectives.
Out of the whole experience, I most remember talking to someone in a wheelchair, who remarked that wearing a cast – not using a wheelchair – was the worst experience for them, because they had to write with their left hand instead of their right.
If you are interested in learning more about Diversity in Disability, head to Titan Atlas to look out for upcoming meetings and events. The club is open to all students, including those with disabilities and non-disabled allies, and aims to create a supportive environment for the disabled community, educate others about disabilities and advocate for disability rights.
