It’s kind of a “dog bites man” story, but earlier this month the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association, the professional certification, training, and lobbying group for speech-language pathologists, came out with a condemnation of public figures mocking stuttering, and along the way, other differences among people. They point out Trump by name, which surprised me because as a huge national organization, they tend to be very careful of political or political-seeming positions. Thanks, ASHA!
ASHA Condemns Public Mockery of Stuttering
Association Calls on National Leaders and Other Public Figures to Lead by Example, Demonstrate Humanity and Respect for People Who Stutter
March 15, 2024
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is imploring our nation’s leaders to demonstrate basic decency and respect for people who stutter as campaigning for the general Presidential election begins.
It’s a point that bears emphasizing. In recent campaign appearances, former President Donald Trump has repeatedly mocked President Joe Biden’s stutter.
Such comments demonstrate a callous view of communication differences. They can also have deep and long-lasting effects on children and adults who communicate in different ways.
… snip...
Let us stand up against unacceptable, cruel, and ableist behavior that has the potential to harm people of all ages across the country—and demand empathy and understanding from our public figures and fellow citizens.
Resources
The emphasis is mine. The photo at the top is of then vice-president Biden giving an address at The American Institute for Stuttering. The video is worth watching.