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Dwarfism Awareness
- Billy Barty
Founder of LPA
"We are people with all the hopes, dreams, passions, and faults of everyone else."
When my daughter was diagnosed with achondroplasia dwarfism, I knew that I was going to become her biggest advocate. I aim to educate, empower, and use my voice to make change. As a person of any size, it is important to advocate for yourself. It is also important to advocate for others who may not be able to do so on their own. Below you will find ways in which you can advocate for yourself, your child, your friend, or simply any little person that you meet! Feel free to use any of these resources shown below.
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Do it for Nora
Letter to School
Providing a letter to your child's teacher and school administrator is an excellent way to advocate for them. This letter, which I wrote for Nora's daycare teacher, is a simple way for me to provide information on Nora's physical differences and educate about correct terminology. Letters to school will look different for every grade level but they are important because they provide educators with information and the understanding that you are open to discuss your child. Once your child is old enough, I encourage you to have them help you write this letter or have them write their own version!
Letter to a Business
At a recent visit to a local restaurant, I became aware that the restrooms were highly inaccessible due to the height of the sink, soap, and paper towels. I noticed that there was no stool and I realized that if I were at this establishment with a little person, they would be unable to wash and dry their hands in the restroom. In addition to speaking with the manager, I wrote a letter to the business to address my concerns. Speaking with staff, management, or writing a letter/ an email are excellent ways to advocate.
What are some simple ways that I can advocate for little people?
Being an advocate does not always mean writing a letter or becoming an expert. Here are other ways that you can become an advocate for little people:
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Use correct terminology. Refer back to the "Talking About Dwarfism" page to learn more.
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Speak up if you hear someone bullying a little person and/or using the word "midget". Some people do not realize that the term is offensive. Education is key!
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Become aware of your surroundings and ask yourself if simple things, such as restrooms, are accessible to little people. If not, speak with management and discuss your concerns.