Crip Camp (2020)

Background

The film opens with a brief overview of the history of the disability rights movement in the United States. Prior to the 1960s, people with disabilities were often institutionalized and excluded from mainstream society. However, the civil rights movement of the 1960s inspired people with disabilities to fight for their rights and demand equal treatment under the law.

Camp Jened

The film then introduces Camp Jened, a summer camp for teenagers with disabilities located in upstate New York. The camp was founded in the 1950s and provided a safe and supportive environment for campers who were often excluded from other activities due to their disabilities. The camp's philosophy was based on the idea of "cripple power," or the belief that people with disabilities could and should advocate for their own rights.

The campers at Jened formed close bonds with one another and were encouraged to express themselves and explore their potential. The camp also offered opportunities for romantic relationships, which were often discouraged or prohibited in other settings.

The Birth of the Disability Rights Movement

Many of the campers who attended Jened went on to become leaders in the disability rights movement. The film features interviews with several former campers who went on to become activists, including Judith Heumann and James Lebrecht, who co-directed the film.

The film chronicles the activism of these former campers, who fought for equal access to education, transportation, and public spaces. The film also highlights the role of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law in 1990 and provides protections for people with disabilities in the United States.

Impact

Crip Camp is a powerful and inspiring film that shines a light on an often-overlooked chapter in American history. The film demonstrates the resilience and determination of people with disabilities, who have fought for their rights and demanded equal treatment under the law. The film also highlights the importance of community and support, both in the form of the Camp Jened community and the larger disability rights movement.

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Conclusion

Crip Camp is a must-see documentary that sheds light on an important chapter in American history. The film is a testament to the power of activism and the ability of individuals to make a difference in the world. The film's message of inclusion and empowerment is both timely and timeless, and it is a reminder of the importance of fighting for the rights of all people, regardless of their abilities.