ableism

disability itself may not discriminate,but those whose job is to support disabled folks sure have.

when trouble brewed after I disclosed my scoliosis,

I lost faith in those who preached inclusion 

but weaponized students’ self-disclosure.

a suggestion that my scoliosis would prevent me 

from performing a function of my future career

was followed by a recommendation to leave the program.

fire started in me and boiled my blood

they forgot I am made of titanium

throwing their weight at me, 

they didn’t realize I'm here to stay.

I took feedback and adapted my approach

meeting myself like I meet clients

I didn’t understand internalized ableism until 

I needed something I wouldn't let myself have.

allowing it, I’m now 25 years old with shower chair

happy to be an industrial-grade human

who supports clients as well as anyone able-bodied

higher biases none of my concern, I pushed on, 

involving even higher powers, learning law

and how to protect myself

the truth is on my side

no one should be treated like this,

but I’m persistent and have faith in myself to make it

if I continue not to be moved by their pushing,

their own friction will tear the fabric of their system.