Creativity Online: The Internet Supports the Very Big and Very Small

I’ve been thinking a lot about writing and the internet lately. Here are a few opening thoughts. The internet provides the means for creative individuals and groups who are either very big (celebrities) or very small (me) to do pretty well. What it’s lousy at is providing the means to make a living. I don’t … Continue ReadingCreativity Online: The Internet Supports the Very Big and Very Small

Down Syndrome must not be a Wedge Issue in the Abortion Wars

A few weeks ago, I hosted an essay on the Pro-Information movement and the threat it faced in the wake of a new law passed in Louisiana, with my comments the next day here. Pro-information is a short-hand for an approach to making sure that women who have received a pre-natal diagnosis of Down syndrome … Continue ReadingDown Syndrome must not be a Wedge Issue in the Abortion Wars

Cult of Compliance: Protecting the Deaf; Protecting Us All.

The ACLU has a new petition on up-to-date guidance and training for police in dealing with people who are Deaf. I’ve signed it. It’s a good idea. Here’s some text. For Pearl Pearson, a 64-year-old deaf man, a routine traffic stop led to a brutal assault by police. When an officer shouted instructions, he attempted to … Continue ReadingCult of Compliance: Protecting the Deaf; Protecting Us All.

Sunday Roundup – Higher Education Week

I had three essays published in the Chronicle of Higher Education this week, 2 planned (they normally won’t post on the same day) and one a reaction piece. I’m exceptionally proud of my university’s work on undocumented students, and in general of the way that many Catholic universities have responded to this issue. Making decisions about … Continue ReadingSunday Roundup – Higher Education Week

Resource Post: This American Life and Down Syndrome

Resource Posts on “How Did We Get Into This Mess?” provide full or partial transcripts of relevant documents, organized links, and minimal commentary on issues.  A fellow parent and internet friend alerted me to a show on This American Life in which Wyatt Cenac, former Daily Show correspondent and comedian, made some jokes about Down syndrome. … Continue ReadingResource Post: This American Life and Down Syndrome

The ABLE act

Today in the US Senate Finance Committee there is a hearing on the ABLE Act. It’s the kind of bill that ought to pass more or less instantly, as it allows people with disabilities to save some money for care without costing them their essential benefits. And yet, in this Congress, it’s stalled. We clearly … Continue ReadingThe ABLE act