Empowerment on Four Legs: Celebrating National Service Dog Month

Ryan, next to service dog Pico, poses with D.C. Councilwoman Brooke Pinto, Canine Companions puppy raiser, Jaime Werner and her service dog in training, Boston following the recognition of National Service Dog Month by the D.C. City Council

Yesterday, I was honored to witness the formal recognition of National Service Dog Month by the Council of the District of Columbia, a testament to the incredible work of organizations like Canine Companions®.

Since its inception in 1975, they have placed 7,454 graduate teams. Just this year, 413 working dog teams have been placed, and there are currently 2,706 active graduate teams nationwide. Behind these numbers are countless stories of individuals finding newfound independence and confidence, thanks to their service dogs.

But these achievements aren't just the result of the organization's efforts alone. A vast network of 4,700 active volunteers nationwide, including 1,292 volunteer puppy raisers and 138 volunteer breeder caretakers, contribute to this mission. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of meeting Jaime Werner, a volunteer puppy raiser whose dedication ensures that service dogs like Pico are well-trained and ready to assist individuals like me. She is currently raising her sixth dog, Boston.

Councilwoman Brooke Pinto's introduction of this legislation is a significant step forward in recognizing the importance of service dogs in our community. Navigating the world with myriad disabilities can be tricky, and Pico has been instrumental in my daily life.

As we celebrate National Service Dog Month, let's remember that independence shouldn't be limited. Every individual, regardless of their challenges, deserves the chance to lead a life with greater autonomy. And with the support of service dogs and the organizations that train them, this vision is becoming a reality for many.

Thank you, Canine Companions, for your unwavering dedication. And to Pico, my loyal companion, thank you for being my eyes, ears, and a never-ending source of joy and humor.

Barbie Movie: A Step Forward or a Missed Opportunity for Disability Representation?

Ryan, Rachael, and Pico pose in front of the poster for Barbie Movie.

This past weekend, my girlfriend and I joined the throngs of Mattel, Inc. Barbie enthusiasts to watch the much-anticipated Barbie movie. As a disability advocate and a fan who may have unapologetically bought "KENough" merch, I was particularly interested in the representation of Wheelchair Barbie, a character that has been a beacon of hope for many young individuals who use wheelchairs.

The movie was entertaining, and the diversity representation was commendable. However, I couldn't help but notice that Wheelchair Barbie, despite her presence in the opening dance scenes, had no dialogue throughout the movie. This was a stark reminder of the reality that, as Madison Lawson writes in her Teen Vogue op-ed, "People with disabilities are rarely featured as the ideal beauty standard, and are often used as objects of inspiration to make non-disabled people feel better about themselves."

The lack of dialogue for Wheelchair Barbie speaks volumes about the broader perception of disability in our culture. It's as if our voices are not deemed important enough to be heard, even in a movie that prides itself on diversity and inclusion.

The struggles faced by Senator Tammy Duckworth, a disability advocate and wheelchair user, further underscore the challenges we face. As reported by POLITICO, Senator Duckworth was unable to watch the Barbie movie due to a broken elevator at the theater. This incident highlights the persistent accessibility issues that prevent full participation in society for individuals with disabilities.

On a more positive note, a resurfaced video of Margot Robbie, the star of the Barbie movie, communicating with a deaf fan at the movie premiere in Amsterdam, has been making rounds on the internet. While many outlets have praised Robbie's actions, I believe that such acts of inclusion should be normalized rather than sensationalized. Inclusion is not a favor or an act of charity; it is a basic human right.

As we wind down Disability Pride Month, let's remember that representation matters, but it's not enough. We need to ensure that our voices are heard, our experiences are acknowledged, and our rights are respected. Let's strive for a world where inclusion is the norm, not the exception.

The Barbie movie, with its appeal and lessons, transcends the gender spectrum. It's a reminder that stories of inclusion and diversity are not just for girls or boys, but for everyone.

Wheelchair Barbie Is a Lesson in the Power of Showing Up Where People Don't Think You Belong