Columnist Mary Shaniqua notes the irony of Invisible Disabilities Week going unnoticed.
Many people live with invisible disabilities every day, yet they are often misunderstood. As Mary Shaniqua writes, "People only see us in fragments, which is why misunderstanding persists."
The lack of awareness about Invisible Disabilities Week highlights the invisibility of disabilities in society. The fact that such a significant event can pass with little notice "speaks volumes about how hidden our experiences are, even when we try to bring them into the light."
A recent social media post sparked anger and sadness, as someone was accused of being deceitful for using a blue badge, the U.K.'s version of a disabled parking permit, because they "didn't look disabled." The post was followed by hateful comments and baseless assumptions.
People only see us in fragments, which is why misunderstanding persists.
Author's summary: Invisible disabilities are often misunderstood due to lack of awareness.