We often struggle to do two things at once, and a simple activity can become complicated if we add a challenge. Imagine riding the subway during rush hour with a huge box in your arms, or walking along a crowded sidewalk with your shoelaces untied.
Does it seem complicated to you?
Now imagine doing the same thing, but with a physical disability and in a society that doesn't notice.
Despite their limitations, many people go out and live their daily lives as optimally as possible. Do people without disabilities make it easier for them? Most of the time, no.
Without going any further, according to statistics from ECLAC (Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean), around 50 million people in Latin America suffer from some type of disability. Only 15% have formal employment, and only 25% of children attend school. Not to mention that most lack adequate infrastructure, educational materials, and inclusive programs to develop a normal lifestyle.
Below, we'll share seven compelling examples of the everyday life of people with disabilities, featuring Mauricio Riffo's brilliant insights.
Mauricio Riffo, alias "Lieutenant Dan," is a 23-year-old Chilean publicist who has been confined to a wheelchair after battling a degenerative disease. However, he never loses his sense of humor and shares his daily life on social media. With more than 3,000 followers on Instagram , Riffo has become a highly recognized influencer .
In private we are all equal
Mauricio Riffo. Instagram.com/Riffo
In this illustration he shared, Riffo expresses that in intimacy and enjoyment, we are all equal . It's worth noting that the influencer has a girlfriend who doesn't have any physical disabilities.
“I love this illustration 😍 because it exactly reflects what happens in a relationship where one of the two has a disability. Could you tell me which of the two uses a wheelchair? I don't think so. Do you know why? Because in private, we're all equal,” the young man expressed.
Inclusive, not exclusive
Mauricio Riffo. Instagram.com/Riffo
In this image, Riffo portrayed how a group of people occupied the accessible elevator without prioritizing those who needed it. Mauricio emphasizes that elevators are not exclusive, but rather, inclusive . No one is saying not to use them, especially if you're tired and carrying suitcases, but if you see a person with a disability, let them go first and wait your turn.
Put yourself in my place, not in my place
Mauricio Riffo. Instagram.com/Riffo
Disabled signage is often ignored. It's believed that a simple copy can justify occupying a spot that doesn't belong to them . The disability is certified, and a badge is issued in return, and this is what Mauricio emphasizes he likes about this sign.
In his words: “Of all the disabled parking signs I know, this one is my favorite because it sums up so well what's happening with disabled parking: first, people think that to park, all you need is a Maltese cross decal, when what you need is a disability registration card; and second, it sends a message to people not to take the definition of inclusion too literally.”
Take it with humor
Mauricio Riffo. Instagram.com/Riffo
Laughing at oneself is one of the tools this influencer uses to raise awareness among his followers. Humor is a powerful way to convey that inclusion often begins within oneself, accepting limitations without turning them into an obstacle , as we can all do anything.
“Love is about finding someone who sees a heart, not just a wheelchair.”
Mauricio Riffo. Instagram.com/Riffo
"Can a disabled person date a normal person?" Believe it or not, Lieutenant Dan often has to answer these kinds of questions. First, you have to ask yourself, what is a normal person? And then listen to his answer: "I'm normal too. I'm just sitting around, that's the only difference from my girlfriend."
Existential doubts
Mauricio Riffo. Instagram.com/Riffo
Some things are very difficult to fight against, such as corporations, state policies, bureaucracy, and integration programs that aren't entirely inclusive. From his place and experience, and through the images he shares, Mauricio tries to generate reflection .
As in this case, where the elevator on the Santiago de Chile Metro was broken, and everything remained the same, regardless of how people with reduced mobility, whether disabled, pregnant, or elderly, would solve the problem.
Also show the good
Mauricio Riffo. Instagram.com/Riffo
Just as Riffo shows the things that need to be corrected in our society, he also believes it's important to value initiatives designed to integrate . Such as an inclusive beach in Quintero, Chile, with specially designed chairs so that people with disabilities can also enjoy something as beautiful and simple as a day of sand, sea, and sun.
Is today's world sufficiently adapted for people with disabilities? In this article, we tell you the harsh truth about raising a child with a disability. Click here.
What did you think of these seven tests? Do you think you've learned a little more about inclusion?
