Improving Disability Representation through the School Library
by Alanna King
The writer of this paper, Alanna King, argues that school library staff are uniquely positioned to focus on the representation of disability in programming and resources. In support of this vision, Alana presents approaches to disability inclusion in three key curriculum modules that highlight resource and activity suggestions. TMC participants will be inspired by Alanna’s knowledge and passion for improving disability representation in their school libraries and beyond.
Hello my friend!
ReplyDeleteI saw your paper advertised as a "must read", and I tend to agree, even though I would have read anything you'd submit.
I admire your vulnerability by beginning with why this topic means so much to you. I remember reading somewhere that when we consider our various identities, we should always add the adjective "currently" to able-bodied (if we are), because you never know if or when this could change.
Thank you so much for framing your work, both for this paper and for your Michener project work, with AML, Vygotzky and Freire. I've read Hammond's work on culturally responsive teaching and the brain, but I'm not as familiar with Derrida. I will need to read more.
I also thank you for providing the slide decks for each of the modules. I wonder if either Canadian School Libraries or the Association for Media Literacy might assist in providing a "home" for these wonderful resources. For good or for ill, both CSL and AML are non-profit, volunteer-run organizations, so the ability to fund ways to extend the reach may be limited.
In your slide decks, it was valuable to have in Module 1 the various types of disabilities defined. Often (or maybe just in my biased mind), disabilities are often focused on physical ones, but there are so many others that need to be considered. The history of the DSM was a fascinating read. In Module 2, the comics would be a great vehicle for discussion; I presume the creators themselves may have disabilities. (It's tricky, isn't it, to check on the identities of creators, because you don't want to "out" anyone who does not want to reveal the specifics of their conditions, but there is a desire for #ownvoices as well.) In Module 3, there are some great titles recommended, and the challenge will be how to keep that section updated.
I wonder how this work could be modified or scaffolded for use in elementary school libraries. It is doable; it's just as much about helping the teacher ensure they do not fall into pits like inspiration p0rn or savior mentalities as it is about explaining in ways young children can understand.
Thanks for this,
Diana