This is a post in the weekly Autism Hopes series by Lisa Quinones-Fontanez, a mom who blogs over at AutismWonderland.
As an autism mom, I have just as many dreams for my son, Norrin, as any other parent raising a ‘typical” kid. One of my dreams for Norrin is that he grow up and be able to care for himself. I want him to have the opportunity to find work that he can take pride in. I am raising Norrin to be a respectful and responsible young man who will become a valued member of society. And I want Norrin to be recognized for his potential and worth.
However, wealthy CEO, Peter Schiff, believes that individuals who are “mentally retarded” are worth $2 an hour. Schiff’s comment is not only arrogant but ignorant. And it perpetuates the misconception that individuals with special needs are less than and unworthy.
Those of us who raise, love and know individuals with special needs, know how wrong Schiff is. It is a privilege to recognize a person’s true value. My friend, Jo Ashline, pretty much summed it up in this simple tweet:
@PeterSchiff Even at “2 bucks an hour”, my #specialneeds son is still worth more than you.
— Jo Ashline (@JoAshline) January 29, 2014
I have a twenty-seven-year old sister with an intellectual disability. While there are jobs that she cannot do, there are many she can. For the last few years, she’s had a part time job as a greeter at Ikea. She’s able to take the train to and from independently and she feels good about the money she earns. I am grateful that she works somewhere that values her as a person. That’s what I want for Norrin and every other kid with special needs.
Just because someone has a “disability” doesn’t mean they lack complete ability to perform a task. Brad Fremmerlid is an amazing example of what can be accomplished when an individuals special talent is put to good use.
As Norrin’s mom, I believe Norrin is priceless. But on the day he is able to work, I want him to be treated equally and paid accordingly. Because regardless of autism, if he’s able to perform a job well – he should be paid fairly. It’s his human right.