Last weekend, UCP’s Family Support Department hosted a free screening of the movie Including Samuel. This documentary was created by photojournalist Dan Habib, and is about the fight for "inclusion" experienced by his son, Samuel, who has cerebral palsy. More than 75 people attended the event, and told us that they found the presentation very moving.

Attendee Kris Haines found it particularly moving when Mr. Habib interviews some of Samuel’s classmates and discovers that they (in Kris' words) "understand the intrinsic normalcy of Samuel and his presence in the classroom far better than some adults". Kris also found it extremely interesting that the brief from the landmark case of Brown v. Board (which overturned the doctrine of “separate but equal") predicted that the next people who would be seeking civil rights would be people who experience disabilities.

After the movie, attendees enjoyed a short presentation by local Canby High School student, Carleigh Dewald. Carleigh spoke about how inclusion has worked for her, her role in the world of wheelchair racing, and her involvement in the Pan American games.  Carleigh is currently working hard with the goal of making the team for the 2012 Paralympic games, which will be held in London.

So, thanks to everyone who participated! And thanks to local coffee shop, Papaccino’s, for donating free coffee, and to Trader Joe's for the free cookies and juice!

If you haven’t seen Including Samuel, you can find out more here.