CW: Ableism
Disabled people have been made to prove their worth for too long. Society sees value in work, earnings, or productivity, and anyone who doesn’t meet these standards is expected to justify their value in society, in the community, in their family, and even in their own home. That’s not only unfair, but it shows a profound misunderstanding of what it means to be human.
Disabled people deserve to live in their own homes and communities, not because they have earned that right by working or being productive, but because they are people. Having a job or contributing to the economy should never be a factor in someone’s ability to be close to family, friends, neighbors, and familiar surroundings.
When talking about disability, questions about cost are too common. Many people seem to think that disabled people are too costly to support, too reliant on others, or too complex for already stressed systems. Simply, those questions are rhetorical. If we instantly determine if someone is “worth it,” then we’ve already lost sight of their humanity.
There are many other ways people contribute to society that do not involve working. They take care of their loved ones. They mentor others. They produce art, music, and writing that enrich our culture. They volunteer their time. They share their stories. They foster bonds and connections. Being kind and connected is just as important as being productive.
However, one thing is overlooked, which is just as real: the worth of a person is not dependent on what they contribute at all. We do not wait for nondisabled children’s worth to be apparent before investing in their futures. We don’t question the dignity of older adults after retirement, simply because they are not working. We recognize that human life has intrinsic value. Disabled people have an equal right to that recognition.
The idea of independence – self-reliance – has caused a lot of damage as well. Every one of us relies on other people throughout our lives. The teachers, healthcare professionals, family, friends, neighbors, and many others we have never met whose work keeps us functioning are the ones we rely on. Those interdependencies are only made more obvious when one person is disabled.
Receiving support does not diminish a person’s independence or humanity. In many cases, having the appropriate support is what allows somebody to take part in their community and live the way they want.
A society that decides who deserves or doesn’t deserve to live based on their productivity will always leave someone out. Sickness, disability, injury, and aging are all normal parts of life. Compassion is not truly compassion if it’s only extended to people who can meet someone’s definition of productive.
Maybe we should stop asking disabled people to prove their worth. Maybe it’s better to ask why there is even the idea that worth has to be proven. No one’s dignity should be based on their ability to work.
Respect, kindness, and belonging should be for all people. Their worth isn’t something they earn, but something they already carry simply by being themselves.