Episode 148: The Assault on Section 504 and the Systemic Erosion of Disability Rights

“Today’s episode critiques the attack on Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, viewing it as an effort to undermine disability rights and equity. Using Stafford Beer's dictum that a system’s purpose is what it does, the author of the source article, Dr. Jaime Hoerricks, argues that the government consistently serves capital and patriarchy, even at the expense of marginalised groups. Dr. Hoerricks highlights how Section 504, designed to prevent discrimination against disabled individuals, is now under attack, particularly concerning trans individuals’ rights. Historical parallels, such as the struggles of women and Chinese migrants, demonstrate a pattern of the government reluctantly granting rights only to later erode them. Dr. Hoerricks contends that the lawsuit Texas v. Becerra threatens to weaken Section 504, endangering 504 plans in education and the broader framework of disability protections, which is likely to impact a range of people, autistics, AuDHDers, etc. They urge solidarity among marginalised groups to resist these systemic forces and fight for true equity and inclusion.”Here’s the link to the source article: https://open.substack.com/pub/autside/p/posiwid-the-assault-on-section-504Let me know what you think.The AutSide is a reader-supported publication. To support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit autside.substack.com/subscribe