“You know those buses that have invalid on the side of them – what does that mean?”
I thought he was joking and answered, “It means they’re not really there.”
“No really, does it ever bother you to be referred to as an invalid?”
I thought about it a bit before replying, “The word itself is not the problem but what it connotes is. Valid means having some foundation; based on truth. Invalid means not valid and is used to describe disabled people as being unable. Granted there are some things people with a disability cannot do and there are people who are too disabled to do anything. However by writing invalid on buses or public bathrooms, connotes that ALL people with a disability are unable. This in itself is an untrue statement that needs to be validated.”
Nicolette Mak has cleverly named her website Valid People and is validating the fact that people with disabilities are able to obtain gainful employment. She uses the phrase “cumbrous body” to describe people who have a physical disability. As a strong believer in the abilities of the disabled, she has set up the Valid People website as an employment resource for those who have a “cumbrous body” and want to work. It is a kind of online employment agency where employment opportunities are posted for various businesses that are looking to hire as well as solicitations from those who are looking to be hired.
Although after a year of trying to obtain gainful employment and getting off the emotional rollercoaster by committing myself to writing a book, I contacted Nicolette. I wanted her opinion of my blog and my situation. Her response was positive and she suggested I enroll in her website. Her offer was very much appreciated but since nothing comes with a guarantee and my decision to write was made, I declined.
Though I have come to terms with my employment status, I can’t help but wonder why the institutions that I contacted didn’t know about the Valid People website. Therefore, I am hoping this blog will generate positive opportunities for those with a “cumbrous body” and employers looking to hire.
