President-Elect Barack Obama mentioned people with disabilities in his acceptance speech Tuesday night:
"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that
Despite his lack of person-first language, his recognition of people with disabilities as part of America's diversity is noteworthy.
For a Full Text Transcript of the speech, go to:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/28/us/politics/28text-obama.html
For You Tube videos of the speech, go to:
http://video.google.com/videosearch?client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla:en-GB:official&channel=s&hl=en&q=obama+acceptance+speech&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&oi=video_result_group&resnum=4&ct=title#
57 comments:
President Obama might not have use the person first language but within his speech he gives a powerful message. He states that no matter what color what age, or if “disabled and not disable” that we are still the United States of America. His message is of equality and opportunity and that is what people with disabilities want the most. It is what everyone wants in this world, to be treated like individuals and to see their accomplishments not their weakness and failures. His acceptance speech sounds like a great way to start of his presidency, and know people with disabilities can have greater supported for their dreams.
Laura S.
I am glad that President Obama did not fail to exclude all different types of people. He is showing that he does recognize what America is and what is the difference between America and other countries. The political democracy as well as the people of America needs to remember America’s purpose to be a country that allows all people the same rights and opportunities. This should not include to be discriminatory to any people whose nationality, rice, sex, age, disability is different than our own. The lack of person-first language is an indicator that we should aware the public about person fist language. In order to accomplish that, we must first be aware of our own language to fix the mistakes of others. As I am getting richer in my faith, I have become more and more aware that we are all just people; we have all been born the same and our lives will end one day. That is in fact reality. Our economic status or how we physically look does not matter because of the fact that our lives do end. Politicians should know this and not only say it in there’re speeches that utilize it at office. Obama stated that it is time for change. I agree but change has to occur in how we treat others. School programs need to be enforced that offer the concept of person first language and it needs to start at the reading level of where young children can understand it. Young children learn very easily just by hearing and watching others. A program such as this would be a wonderful tool for everyone.
-Elizabeth H.
This speech goes to tell us that people are trying to make a difference in our country. That no matter what type of person you may be, we are in a country composed of all types of minorities. People are becoming more aware that community with disabilities is included as a minority. It seems like our new president is well aware of what issues need to be address to make a difference in this country. Hopefully people with disabilities are included among those changes but for the better. That new benefits, programs, and assistance are placed for them. While focusing on people with disabilities, hopefully they become aware of person-first language and try to enforce it all around. This election shows us that anything is possible for minorities.
janneth a.
Althouth Barack Obama did not use person first language I think that it is important that he included people with disabilities. It is easy to look at the problems that the majority of society has. Which is why, I think, many people address issues having to do with race. But there are many people with disabilities who deserve to be heard and acknowledged. I believe that if he decided to include it in his acceptance speech then he will more than likely be aware of issues dealing with it. I know that all of America is hoping for a change in not only the country but the way government works. And I am glad that he has people with disabilities on his mind because I think that more than likely he will strive to make a difference.
Diana m.b.
First of all Congrats to President-Elect Barack Obama. I'm glad he was elected, not to say that McCain didn't have the capacity(he did), but with Obama as President the "Change" and Restoration of our FAITH in OUR COUNTRY can really strengthen. I'm glad that Obama didn't leave anyone behind when giving his acceptance speech Tuesday night. In his speech he demonstrated equality and opportunity for everyone- with or without disabilities too. This is only the beginning, and it might not be easy, but nobody said it was going to be. Plus, sometimes the things that seem harder to get are the most worthwhile. I can't wait what's to come in these next four years; now I know that anything is possible when you have your heart set into it. Also, just look at the difference we made together- we elected the "first" African American to the highest position in office. This isn't only change, and hope for people with disabilities, but for EVERYONE.
First of all Congrats to President-Elect Barack Obama. I'm glad he was elected, not to say that McCain didn't have the capacity(he did), but with Obama as President the "Change" and Restoration of our FAITH in OUR COUNTRY can really strengthen. I'm glad that Obama didn't leave anyone behind when giving his acceptance speech Tuesday night. In his speech he demonstrated equality and opportunity for everyone- with or without disabilities too. This is only the beginning, and it might not be easy, but nobody said it was going to be. Plus, sometimes the things that seem harder to get are the most worthwhile. I can't wait what's to come in these next four years; now I know that anything is possible when you have your heart set into it. Also, just look at the difference we made together- we elected the "first" African American to the highest position in office. This isn't only change, and hope for people with disabilities, but for EVERYONE.
oops..forgot to put my name on the first one... Rosario G.
Even though Barack Obama didnt use person first language, I think that it was very thoughful and important for him to think about every different kind of person. I liked the way he included people with disabilities or without and it seemed as if that was just a little insight that he would provide opportunities and do something for people with disabilities. I am anxious to see what he can do to help the U.S. in any way possible.
Cristina Lo.
What an amazing and historical journey this has been for the new President-Elect Barack Obama. He has inspired so many people throughout the nation within these past two years, including myself. His message of change and unity has been heard and finally realized. He might have raised a few eyebrows in the Rehabilitation Counseling Community with his lack of person-first language, but I believe that the mere fact he included every minority group in his definition of what it is to be an American is more significant than being political correct, at least for now. I truly believe that our new president will make a difference in his term/s as president and I’m sure he will take every group of people into consideration when it comes to helping the American people. It is with that message and mindset that has gotten him to where he is now and I am sure he will do wonderful things for this country. Juan N. 10 of 12
President Obama's speech was very moving and emotional for me. He made it a point to regocnize all people of this country: all colors, gender,races and people with disabilities that made their voice heard on November 4th. So he did not use first language, I am sure someone will bring it to his attention and he will fix it for next time.
We all spoke up and demanded the time for change and he answered our voices. Again he has a long, hard road ahead of him but we can all contribute to make the necessary steps for change. We can start in our own communities,families and schools to try to educate the public about the issues that people with disabilities have to edure on a daily basis. We all have to stand up and be heard.
I watched on television the night that Obama won and how the world celebrated with us. It was an emotional and amazing sight, never in the history of our country has this happened. I enjoyed watching the images from Kenya and Japan and of course from here in the United States. Thousands of people were celebrating and there was an energy about it that made me realize things are going to change for the best, for all. And I am ready to be a part of that change especially with the rehab program. We are in such great positions to offer our services to so many. I promise to sit at the table and listen and take action in the best interest of the individual that is sitting right there next to me.
MarilynC
America is ready for a change,and it moves me to know that President Obama is determined to make those changes happen for the American people in general. I was overwhelmed to hear that those changes will also be there for people with disabilities, because we too are human and deserve to be treated with dignity and equality. I am glad to have been around to see and live through this historical moment!
T.Estrada
I totally agree with Janneth A.'s comments, and I could not have expressed the same thoughts any better than Janneth as to the needs of programs, benefits and changes focusing on people with disabilities.
Teresa E.
I remain skeptical that much will change. Obama may have paid $650 million to become president, but that does not mean that he will be any better than our former administration. He has an extremely difficult task at hand. He reminds me of one of my former supervisors. We jokingly referred to him as “Dr. Feel Good”. You could go talk to him and tell him your concerns and walk out of his office “FEELING GOOD”. The only problem was that the feeling didn’t last and you still were left dealing with the same problems and concerns. Obama is the consummate politician. He did forget to mention “Egocentric Individuals”. Wonder how much it will cost taxpayers to make the modifications necessary to fit his head through the White House? I have never been impressed by him. If anyone is paying attention, you will see that he is assembling an administration that will be full of the same ’ole, same ole. So much for change!
Rosie G
Electing Pres-elect Obama cetainly proved that change is here. Seeing the way people were coming together during the elections and after declaring Obama as the new President was very emotional. Just the sight of different races coming together was amazing. Also I was even more pleased to hear his speech especially when he included and mentioned Disability this proves that he does have the disabled in mind. We have yet to see him in action. Remember that we have a democractic president and hopefully, he will help with programs and benefits for all people which includes programs for disability community. Again, the United States has proven that anything is possible if you believe. Igarza
It is a little early to get happy or in the case of Rosie, cynical about the new adminstration. TIme will tell how Obama will come down on the question of the needs of people with disabilities.
In trying to predict what to expect from the Obama administration, we need to look at who supports each party. People tend to vote their economic interests, and parties tend to help their own constituents.
Republicans tend to be business oriented, old school and religious right oriented - wall street, main street, and churches. Democrats tend to be needs oriented - women and minority rights, poor people, and people with disabilities.
Of course these are not hard and fast divisions. People on each issue are in both parties. However, when an issue comes to congress, Republicans tend to look at cost and whether it is a burden on business, which they see as the engine that runs this country. Democrats tend to see needs and rights.
With our country in economic trouible, both parties are willing to spend money to stimulate the economy. This may or may not be good economic policy, but neither party is willing to be called stingy and the cause of an economic depression.
With Democrats in charge of the White House and firmly in charge of both houses of Congress (on 1/20/09) the government is a lot more receptive to reforms of all kinds. People who lobby for the community of people with disabilites need to be preparing laws that help the community of diability. They need to be pushing the Obama administration to appoint people sympathetic to the disabilty commuunity to government jobs. The opportunity for reform is now! It does not come around very often and it will not last more than two years. We need to take advantage of it while it is here.
DavidW 10th blog
Obama did not use the person first language but he did talk about equality and more opportunities. Equality is what many of us want and people with disabilities deserve to be treated equal. The only thing us people have to work on is treating people the way we want to be treated and wait for Obama to do his job. Rocio D.
I think it is very interesting the speech president Obama gave. It is important that the president help to maintain equality around our country. Ive been watching all his speeches, and i think he is a very intelligent man who answer very good to questions. I hope he really help the country like he said he would.
Claudia P.
Pres- elect Obama, definitely showed promise by mentioning those with disability within his speech, as part of the American Dream. If I remember correctly one of the older blogs posted, stated that “most people with disabilities felt that they did not have a voice within this presidential election”; hopefully Obama's speech and future actions as president will help this minority group to gain empowerment and faith in the political system.
While it is true that Obama failed to use person first language, I do not believe that he meant it in a derogative manner. The fact is that most people do not use person first language, this is why it is important for those within the rehab profession to emphasis the power and benefit of person first language. One may start by simply writing a letter to their congress man/woman or in this case white house administration.
Cris M.
Eventhough President-elect, Barack Obama does lack his person first language, I give him props for not forgetting about persons with disablities. Almost everyone forgets about them at one point. Not only did he mentions them, but also everyone else whether they were from the opposite party to the different kinds of backgrounds. so far so good.
Alma D.
I am glad to see that Obama talks about equality and oppertunities for everyone. I do believe that no matter if your white black hispanic disabled or not everyone should have the same oppertunities in life. Up to now his speech sounds very good, I just hope he trys to implement what he has promised to do if he won presidency.
Noelia B.
President-Elect Obama shows that he is a great speaker. Well, even though, someone wrote his speech. He can deliver a big speech when necessary. He might have not used person first language but at least he covered everyone in the United States. His attitude about being the future president of the U.S. has had very positive feeling to most of the people here. He makes us feel that there is hope for everyone and that he is going to do what he set out to do. Maybe, we did a change of party in the white house. He has at least four years to help our nation. Angie K.
the mere fact the president obama mention the disabled in his acceptance speech is awesome...this shows that he considers them as a population instead of just mentioning them as individuals..hopefully throughout his presidencey he will do great things for those who are disabled and affiliated with people with disabilities..
-Gary G.
Well I am glad that out President-Elect Barack Obama mentioned disability in the speech. This tells me that even thou he may not change the situation right away among this population, disability is at the back of his head. He has acknowledged equality among all individuals including people with disabilities and that is something to certainly feel positive about. There is a lot to do, Obama has inherited a great responsibility and hopefully he won’t forget people with disability. I really hope that Obama did follow his promises and allow everybody a chance to participate and benefit from all the opportunities in the this country.
Mariana GG
As everyone else has already noticed President Obama didn't use Person first language, however he did mention PWD. When running for president you should mention every aspect in one's life in every way you can, because the more people you reach out to, the more votes you get. Some people might have voted for him only because he mentioned PWD and the changes he wants to make. That was one of the things that brought him to his victory on presidency! I'm glad he wants to make some changes in that area and brought that to everyones attention that the disabled are no different than people who are not disabled.
Sabrina D.
I also agree with everyone else. Yea president elect Obama didnt use person first language but he still mentioned people with disability. As long as we know he dosent forget about PWD and comes up with many programs and benifits.
-Alex S
I think it is wonderful that President-Elect Barack Obama mentioned disability in his acceptance speech. Although it was not in person-first language, his mere mention of disability is testament to his acknowledgement of individuals who are disabled. As was mentioned previously, Barack Obama and Joseph Biden’s “comprehensive agenda to empower individuals with disabilities fits in with their campaign's overarching message of equalizing opportunities for all Americans.” I, for one, can not wait to witness all the change that Obama’s term as President will bring. Obama and Biden have already stated that they will “provide educational opportunities to Americans with disabilities” by “fighting to provide students with disabilities the public education they have a right to, invest in early intervention programs, improve college opportunities, and support universal screening of infants.” They also made clear that workplace discrimination should end and a promotion of equal opportunity should occur.
Matthew V.
Listening to the speech that President Obama made was very well put together. I have never heard or remember hearing a president mentioning how every one is the same no matter what. The fact that Obama wants a change to occur and said how everyone was equal or still the United States of America no matter of ones race, gender, if someone with a disability or without was a great way to show how and what he thinks of every person. I hope things go great with him being our new president and can't wait to see what happens.
Tracy S.
On 11/04/2008 Obama recognized all diversity in the United States as one. In his speech he did not use Person First but as others noted he did recognize. This allows others to feel as one, and he said “we are not just a collection, we are an always will be the United States of American, and change has come to American.” This speech was very motivating to speak out and make a difference. One can only hope to see the changes that he will be executing through his presidency.
Monica M.
President Obama's speech was one of the greatest speeches i have ever heard in the history of presidential elects!! His statements were magnificant and made citizens of the united states feel as if each one of us is equal!! Obama views each citizen as one... he stated different races and most of all people with or without disabilities!! The fact that he said this truly shows that our president elect is true, honest, and ready to improve our nation as a whole!
joelia n.
Response:
Look at his pose in the picture. He has crossed arms. He is closed to the world and angry. He is also a liar. He is not an African American - he is a Muslim. He has radical cronies who are already appointed in his cabinet. I don't believe a word he says. He speaks smooth words to please everybody and is shifty. He will say one thing to one group and then contradict himself with another. He stands by his own selfish motives and gains. Why is he against the voucher program? Why doesn't he enroll his own daughters in one of those Harlem schools in New York or those ghetto black schools in Washington, D.C.? He is obviously using the voucher program. Time will tell but I think it will be too late - America has voted for their choice. I still think people that voted for him are deceived and don't have enough information on his background to say that he is truly qualified for the presidency. It's a pleasure being an American citizen and to have a voice - I wonder if one day, that privilege will be taken away from me? Sorry to disillusion you Obama hopefuls.
Diana F.
I am very hopefull with "Pre-Elect Obama" as he did not forget to remember teh persons with disabilities even on his day of celebation of his historic victory. Ussally people do not like to remember persons with disability on the day of celebrations. When Head of the
State/Leader is positive in his attitute towards some thing then the society will become positive too. It will be easy to implement the ADA if the Adminstration is positve and decided to do so. The good days are ahead for persons with disabilities. He needs to spread the knoledge and positve attitute for these people,wich he already started on the very first day.
I am very hopefull with "Pres-Elect Obama"as he did remember the persons with disabilities at the time of his hstoric victory, when generally people do not want to remember the persons with disability on the day of celebration. I feel if the Head of State/ Leader is positive towards something then the society as whole will show the positive attitute. We need to give knowledge to the soiety to have a psitive attitute towards the persons with disabilities. To implement the ADA perfectly and with a positive attitute. I am positive we will be able to achieve it.
puri v
I think with Obama mentioning individuals with disabilities in his acceptance speech was great, however I do know that most of presidents speeches have a team behind the speeches and of course to not have criticism from the disability world not just individuals with disabilities but other minorities will be mentioned. I truly am confident that Obama will go forward with his plan and eager to see what changes are made in the next four years. I really hope that Obama sees the high need for youth transition and makes the necessary changes to assist our schools and transitional counselors better transition our youth with disabilities. Several youth with disabilities are in need of transportation training and schools need more funding to work with outside resources.
Emede R
Wow Joelia, It's unfortunate you have not had the opportunity to hear a lot people speak. I think some of the quest speakers at the university have given better speeches!
Even though President Obama didn't use person first language, he mentioned "disabled and not disable" as equal. In addition he reminds us that in America everything is possible even being a black president something that was never expected. It is good that now people with disabilities are counted as part of our society.
I agree with T. Estrada America is ready for change and it appears that now the change is possible.
Mariam G.
President Obama's plan to extend equality and opportunity is good.
The greatest thing about being an
American y just that- Equality. His dreams & ambitions towards people with disabilities are good; however, he faces many challenges to be overcommed. I pray that he finds the Wisdom to lead this country and to do justice to those in need.
President Obama's plan to extend equality and opportunity is good.
The greatest thing about being an
American y just that- Equality. His dreams & ambitions towards people with disabilities are good; however, he faces many challenges to be overcommed. I pray that he finds the Wisdom to lead this country and to do justice to those in need. Paty C
I thought Barack Obamas' speech was very motivating. I dont think i have ever heard or read any other speech that includes "gay straight,disabled or not disabled" this just shows that change is coming quick and that its happening now, whether Diana F likes it or not.
Maybe some people need to quit being so negative and be a real proud American because a real American wouldn't sit their and put our new incoming president down. And need to be glad that our country isn't ruled by money hungry, power seeking, selfish men that can have fifthy wives and make all our life long desicions for us. because that is what is out there in other countries. Be happy that we can have everything we want, and that we have a stabled government that helps its people in any possible way!!!
I got a little out of hand there!!
I am looking forward to our new President and his ideas and if they dont work or they go wrong, well at least he would have tried!! just like every other President!
I do wonder though, why the editor of his speech didnt catch that mistake:/ well i guess no ones perfect.
Carmen G.
The lack of person first language is bad but good knowing that it is coming from a person who is just that of a minority group. He could have left that comment out all together then we would be hearing someone who is the same as what we have in office already. Some people criticize that he is not good or that he has a big head and he isn’t going to change anything, but we still have yet to give him the opportunity of benefit of a doubt. The previous president was not good and he did leave out many people not only minorities because in his opinion the only ones worth helping were those who were rich beyond belief. This is what people voted for and I can say people because I know that I was not one of his supporters. I have all the faith in the world that Obama will help all people of this nation ALL MINORITY GROUPS.
-anisa c
I am glad to hear that persons with disabilities did not get left out this time. It is rare to hear something good and actually mean it, about persons with disabilities from a president. He knows what it is like to be discriminated against and that is why I think he included persons with disabilities. I will not say who I voted for but I am hoping he will advocate more for persons with disabilities and make bigger changes than the other presidents that have been elected. Even though we have had some presidents make vast and good changes for persons with disabilities.
Crystal S.
10 of 12
I was so glad to hear President-Elect Obama mention people with disabilities in his speech even though he did not use person first language. He has always invoked a feeling of hopefulness in me that I have not had for our leaders in Washington for some time. What I especially enjoyed was that he mentioned everybody, white, black, pink, purple, gay straight, disabled and not disabled. When someone goes through the effort of mentioning the many groups that he did, it makes you feel like we really are one nation. I think if he manages to pull through everything he says he wants to do, our nation will be a better place because of him. We will be a step closer to ending the discrimination of all types of people in our nation. Celena M
I think President-elect Obama delivered a great speech on that historical night. He did not only mention the disabled and not disabled, he mentioned everyone. The young and old, rich and poor, and all the different races in our country. Yes, there may be other ethic backgrounds he failed to mention, and yes, he did not use person first language, but that should be the least of our concerns at this moment; he tried to mention everyone. I do not recall many speeches made in the past by former presidents, but this particular speech did mention people with disabilities, and that is something to take into consideration when looking into the future. Obama’s procedure seems to include people who are disabled into his plan of action and that is a change that has been needed in this country for a very long time know.
Nancy C.
11 of 12
I have to totally disagree with Carmen and when she said, "this just shows that change is coming quick and that its happening now, whether Diana F likes it or not.
Maybe some people need to quit being so negative and be a real proud American because a real American wouldn't sit their and put our new incoming president down. And need to be glad that our country isn't ruled by money hungry, power seeking, selfish men that can have fifthy wives and make all our life long desicions for us. because that is what is out there in other countries. Be happy that we can have everything we want, and that we have a stabled government that helps its people in any possible way!!!" In the first part of your response - oh yeah, you're right change is coming - what you must ask yourself is what kind of change?" In response to your second ridiculous response about the proud American nonsense, it takes a proud American to stand up for what is right and not just go along with the crowd - that will be your downfall and the downfall of this wonderful nation we used to love so much. In addition, I am a true and proud American to be able to speak out and not be suppressed like the third world countries we are dealing with. People like you will drag us under an Islamic or Communist type government. My reactions have nothing to do with pessimism or negativism, it has everything to do with realism. In response to another ridiculous statement you made...I am not sitting here like a sheep being lead to the slaughter - I am speaking out - it is my American right- I am not proud of the incoming so called president and I have every right to say so. If you knew me, you would know me as a proud and natural born American citizen, you would know me as a very patriotic person with an optimistic attitude. Finally, that power hungry, money seeking, selfish and self-centered mentality you mentioned well... that's Obama and the rest of his cronies.
Diana F.
I agree with Cristina Lo. Even though Obama didn’t use person first language, I think that it was very thoughtful and important for him to think about every different kind of person.
M Munoz
I believe that President Obama has the right idea, he might not be using Person First Language but he seems to get the message across. I believe that individual with disability believe in President Obama and what he is doing for all individuals not only disable individuals. All individuals will hopefully have a different way of life with President Obama. "We will see."
Jenny G.
While I do recognize that it is noteworthy that people with disabilities were mentioned in the speech, I do not feel that it is okay to let it slide. You would think that with as many people in the campaign that someone would have caught it. I know that there have been several news reports and articles about person first language. It is important that this type in consideration for people with disabilities be corrected sooner rather than later. This could set back the progress that has been made in changing the language to person first.
~Marlene H. 9 of 12
Personally his acceptance speech really touched me because he makes it clear that this was the turn point for america, this was the begining of a new era were as he said anyone, no mater color,gender,age,if with or with out a disability, now more than ever anyone can be anything they want, because when in anyone's mind was there going to be a black president!..After this parents can be more sure than ever when they tell their children they can be whatever they want..EVEN be the next President of the United States.
-Brandon R.
I believe that this speech was a very assertive one. It is about time that people with disabilities are treated like individuals. Even though President Obama did not use the person first language he demonstrated with his speech the desire of a non discriminatory presidency.
Karen L.
I can agree with Laura S. I do feel Obama could have used first person language, however I do feel his speech did give a powerful message. I also agree his acceptance speech is a good way to start.
Caleb B.
Its good that president Obama didnt forget to mention the people with disabilities. He shows that they are also part of society and part of the United States of America. Hopefully once he takes office he wont forget about people with disabilities and work in order to help them and provide many benefits for them.
Omar O.
I can agree with Chris that Obama’s misuse of person first language was not intended to be derogatory; the mere fact that he mentioned the disability community seems to be a step in the right direction… Juan N.
President Obama strong message about people with and without disability, really touched me. He included everyone in his speech and he made it clear that there is going to be a difference in everyones life. I think he has a big plan for each and everyone of us and i am ready to see President Obama do his job.
Jennifer G
Wow. I totally agree that its good that he didnt forget about people with disablities but I really have to agree with every word Diana F. said. It does take a proud American to stand up for what you believe in. I don't agree with a lot of the things Pres-elect Obama has to say. My morals stand way higher than any political reason. I really pray he does a good job but i guess we are just going to have to wait and see if he is going to do everything ha says he is. We are a nation of equality but do we really have to allow all the things that are not moral?
Alma R.
In Marlene's comment she mentioned that the lack of person first language in President Obama's speech should not be allowed to slide. As a person who has lived with a disability all my life, I only recently learned about person first language. When I commented on an earlier article I caught myself using "polio victim" when referring to myself. I know better now.
The more significant point in President Obama's speech was that he included people with disabilities as part of the ALL Americans family. I think that was a great speech and felt very genuine. May God bless our new President and all of us to work together to rebuild our economy so that people with disabilities of all kinds can receive the things they need to live and work as equals.
Sylvia S.
I think its great that President Elect Obama mentions disability in his Acceptance Speech. In his speech, i believe his reason for mentioning this is to show equality in all races of people and those people who have disabilities as well. Either way we are all Americans and it is great that President Obama said this in his acceptance letter. I hope that he can keep this moral of the American people up and that we gain much more support for issues such as these.
Stephanie P
Despite the fact that President Obama didn't use person first language I think it was a great speech. I mean I didn't know anything about person first language until i took this class and probably would of said the same thing but then again im not the Presidnet. I like how he addressed that no matter our age, ethnicity, or "disabled or not disabled" we are all a part of america. What he's trying to address is that we are all equal and i really like that about him. Its a great way for him to start his presidency because that what we all want in this world to be free and equal. Hopefully someone corrected his person first language and he can get it right next time because i hope to hear lots more of what he has to say of people with disabilities
Crystal M.
Ha! yep i agree he didn't use first-person, i think he needs to be educated on disability etiquette. But that lil piece I read was powerful, it's time for a change! And I'm really hoping the country does change, we as Americans have so much power but are so afraid of the gov't; it IS gov't BY the people, and i believe we have forgotten that. Do you know that in France the gov't/parliment or whatever in charge over there is terrified of the people getting together and the people know that! wow that is amazing, we could do so much if more of us stood up instead of sit down in fear. Our founding fathers intended for THE PEOPLE to run this not those in the office they are there BECAUSE OF US! ok anyway. we moving on up!
Crystal O.
I think President Obama will be a great President after all he has talked about. I like his meesage of equality in the Unites States and hope all he has proposed gets done!
Alejandrina T.
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