"Per*verts Are People Too"

When I interviewed for my current job (as an Occupational Therapist in a once large state instit*ution for developmentally disabled adults) 5 years ago, I was told that some of the people I would work with were 'forensic'.  This meant that they were placed there because they had broken the law but were found not criminally responsible.

These offenses included, but were not limited to, arson, theft, assault, murder, and pedophilia.

I must admit that I was a bit put off, concerned, even alarmed.  But then one of my future colleagues said, "Per*verts are people too".

In the ensuing years, I have spent many hours with these individuals, gardening, cooking, bicycling, and doing ceramics.  They call out greeting when I get out of my car.  They ask when we'll work together again.  They take pride in their accomplishments, they support each other.  I enjoy their company immensely (most of them, anyway!).

Last week, our recreation department put on the first-ever "prom" at our facility.  Thanks to the family of a former resident who donated a large sum to be used for the individuals, the gym was decorated, including a 'champagne' fountain.  Limousines and a band were hired.  Excitement ran high for weeks.  The residents were 'dressed to the nines' in formal gowns, tuxedos, and suits. Fancy, catered hoers de oeuvres were served.  Staff were out in force with cameras.

Staff who were once residents attended.  A woman who was recently discharged returned, radiant and beautiful in a floor length gown and tiara.  Limos carried excited residents and staff to and from their home buildings.

The band performed excellent renditions of timeless Motown songs, which appealed to young and old.  They played two well-choreographed sets, complete with costume change. 

My daughter, Kat*ie, danced with many partners, was in great demand as a photo prop,
and served as a non-staff, non-resident, attractive young female--very normalizing.  She has 'always' been very comfortable with a variety of people, and doesn't flinch at people with microcephaly, severe deformities, or unusual behaviors.  She also thought to plug her iPod into the sound system during  the band's break so that everyone could dance to a popular Cha Cha number.   She's been around so often that some of the residents call her by name.      

For many people, including myself, this was their first prom.  I was never the 'prom' type.  But I enjoyed this one immensely, in the company of people who are sincere, appreciative, fun to be with, and scorned by many, in a facility that many people feel should be shut down, so that people can live 'in the community'. 

I'd truly rather spend time with my per*verts, arsonists, and thieves than lots of other people I know.  They're great folks.  Their judgment may be off.  They many need more supervision than they were given.  But, they ARE people, too.

Comments

[Chris B]

Hah! I love the bars. Those are really great.

[Beth Ann]

Hey there...what a great entry. Seems like it was a magical night for many of the people. I was never the "prom type" either, but it sounds like a party I would have enjoyed.

Hope you are well...
:) bas

[Sue]

Hey, Chris--bet you can't tell who the woman in the fancy dress in the photo is...the bars are very effective.