ABSTRACT
In the Preface, I explained how I had been affected by writing this book. It hurt my heart. I was so saddened by these crimes. Sometimes, the violence and brutality just took my breath away. And sometimes, I just felt numb … just overwhelmed by all the pain. But I hope the book has not just been an overwhelming and depressing narrative; that was never my intention. I did want to stress that there are those who actively hate disabled people, but I wanted to indicate that a lot can be done to improve the social dynamics that leave disabled people alone, vulnerable, and isolated. It is these dynamics which we need to change. And we can change them. I have seen one person, acting as an advocate, make a difference in the life of a person who was experiencing criminal victimization. And I have seen disability groups take up cases and campaign around them until justice was done. Individually or collectively, people who read this book can make a difference. You can do something. Whether it is simply providing a phone number for a crime victims support service, or listening when someone needs to tell ‘a secret’, or reporting a co-worker who is engaging in inappropriate behavior, or attending a meeting where local people share their stories and simply validating their experiences, everyone can do something. And if you are the victim of a hate crime, I want to remind you: you are not the only one who has gone through this kind of experience. You are not to blame, and you can get help. You deserve to be happy and safe. My heart goes out to you.
