Do Minorities Need ‘Examples’ To Achieve Their Potential?

It seems that in today’s world it is a given that minorities need those of the same kind to achieve their potential in life.  I can see that there is some truth to this point of view; but it need not be the case.

I would argue that you don’t need ‘examples’. Yes, it might be nice to see those similar or like you.  However, don’t use the lack of ‘examples’ as a crutch or excuse for inaction.  As a minority, you will most likely always be a minority – a fact you can’t change.  Accept it and deal with it!

So, do you then revert to being a victim, or accept your situation, and make the most of it despite there being none or few others in your situation. I personally don’t see why there is the big need for ‘examples’ in the public eye like me.  You can lead a full life without seeing others like yourself.  I know, I’ve been there, done it!!  I think I have a valid point to make, speaking from a life-time of experience.

As a child in the 1960s, I went to an able-bodied primary school in Nigeria and Scotland.  I don’t remember any other disabled pupils.  At university in the US in the 1980s, it was the same.  I didn’t encounter any other disabled travellers when I back-packed through SE Asia, and across Australia, and the US in the 1980s.  Nor did I encounter any other disabled teachers in the 1990s and 2000s in the countries i taught in..  To be honest, it never crossed my mind that I didn’t see any others like me.  I was who I was, and I was simply doing what I wanted to do.