Fictional Characters Who Might As Well Have Been Talking About Disability Inclusion

I think that most of us can readily think of the “big players” when it comes to identifying the quotes that move us. We call to mind historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy Jr., Mother Teresa, Ghandi, Martin Luther King Jr., or Nelson Mandela. Or we might name prominent literary figures such as Maya Angelou, Fred Rogers, Jane Austin, Dr. Seuss, or Anne Frank.

We likely have been inspired by most, if not all, of them, to be sure. It is easy to apply any of their quotes to whatever aspect of our lives needs a little push: leadership, education, relationships and yes, even disability inclusion. 

But here’s the thing: sometimes inspiration comes from an unexpected source.

 

Here is my list of fictional characters who might as well have been talking about disability inclusion:

Dory: "Just keep swimming!" (By the way, if you haven't seen Finding Dory, drop everything and get on it. Now. There is no better animated movie – maybe any movie - that represents disability in an authentic, meaningful and inclusive way.)

Albus Dumbledore (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Apprentice): "Difference of habit and language are nothing at all if our aims are identical and our hearts are open."

Rafiki (Disney’s Lion King): "Oh yes, the past can hurt. But you can either run from it or learn from it."

Chef G (Disney’s Ratatouille): "You must not let anyone define your limits because of where you come from. Your only limit is your soul."

Phineas (Disney’s Phineas and Ferb): "The only thing that is impossible is impossibility."

Winnie the Pooh: "The things that make me different are the things that make me."

Eeyore: "A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference."

Do you agree? Please share some of your favorite disability inclusion quotes in the comments below.

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