Rachel Simon's Talk

I have so much to do, but I really want to read both of her books-- Riding on the Bus with my Sister, and The Beautiful Girl.

First Rachel Simon was an amazing speaker. I loved how she made sure that everyone was comfortable with her speaking volume and pace. I never heard a speaker to that, but I think it's important to do that.
Her talk was basically the summary of our semester. She talked about Disablity History (I was fascinated yet saddened about institutions in the US), being a translator, acessibility, and just everything. I thought the "being a translator' part was especially fascinating. I know growing up in a bilingual household I always acted as the translator between my parents and other English speaking people. Many times in professional settings--doctor's offices, and banks, the "professional" says "tell your parents....". And I get offended... like why don't you? My parents speak English. And I wonder how hard it must be for it to happen to people with disablities on a more regular basis. 

Reading the accessibility guidelines made me think of how ignorant I have been to accessibility in the community. I never thought about accessbility in the community because it just wasn't part of my life. Reading the guidelines made me understand how important it is to accommadate for other people. I want to visit the Smithsonian again to see how accessiblity plays a role in the museum because I never saw exhibitins in that manner.