Photo catches staff member’s attention

Today’s post was written by Laura Medcalf, Social Media Content Specialist with The INDATA Project and Assistive Technology program.
In a recent photoshoot for Interview magazine, Kylie Jenner’s stick-thin, airbrushed figure is found seated in a golden wheelchair. When I first saw the image, I couldn’t help but giggle and think to myself, “Seriously?” Before I continue, please note I do not spend my time “keeping up with the Kardashians” or any celebrity for that matter, because their egregious decisions are, well, their decisions, and do not affect my life. However, the image of 18-year-old Jenner posing in a wheelchair definitely caught my attention as it proves we, as a society, have a long way to go in terms of disability awareness.

I am not at all certain what the wheelchair is meant to symbolize in this photo, but many infer the golden prop is meant to represent the restraints of being a celebrity. I am not directly offended by Jenner, an able-bodied person, posing in a wheelchair. Rather, I take offense to the wheelchair being used as an accessory representing limitations. If the team behind the photoshoot aspired to portray restrictions, they should have used golden handcuffs or some other distasteful restraints.

As I have used a wheelchair a majority of my life, I can personally state that a wheelchair is anything but limiting; it’s how I get around. It isn’t an accessory but rather a part of who I am. It does not define me nor does it limit me. In all actuality, it’s provided me with more opportunities than most can imagine. I have lived independently for several years now. I drive. I was the first of my family to graduate from college. I’ve had a loving boyfriend for more than seven years. And I go to work every day at my dream job.
In conclusion, I don’t believe Jenner’s intention was to offend anyone. I feel her “surreal” photoshoot simply proves lack of disability awareness. If anything good can come from this photo, it’s that she has brought disabilities into the spotlight. She has proven that a wheelchair is not a prop for a photoshoot, but rather a positive tool for conversation.
Laura is the main writer for www.eastersealstech.com and has led The INDATA Project’s social media program since 2013. She studied creative writing at Ball State University and currently lives in Indianapolis with her dog, Winifred.