CREATING HOME [Part 2] - The Story of Bert and Albert - Institution To Community

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are segregated from society in many different ways, including institutions where they are congregated in groups and denied rights and opportunities for life as full human beings and included citizens. Cynics believe that community living for people with intellectual disabilities is unrealistic for those with complex needs. Albert, Bert, and those who believed in them demonstrate through this remarkable film that the benefits of community living have no age limits. Take note of the changes in Bert and Albert after the move. How do you think life in an institution would change your view of the world? How would you feel about sharing your bedroom and bathroom 24/7?

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• intellectual
• disabilities
• developmental
• disability
• community
• living
• ontario
• canada
• institutions
• de-institutionalization
• human
• rights

[LarsonLaurie]

Watching this story about Bert and Albert brought me great happiness and also great sadness. My first response was to smile and be so thrilled for them, they truly deserve to finally have this life. After a while though, the rest sinks in. How many other lives have been stolen over the years, people who died in institutions who never got to know this kind of freedom and choice. How many others are still denied a life like this, stuck in institutions across Canada and around the world?

[liveworkplayvideo]

That is a common reaction - also to feel sad about how much of their life was so limited - and definitely to think about those who may never see the outside of an institution.

[jenniferaharris]

Very moving video - I take so much for granted  I will not do this anymore!

[liveworkplayvideo]

Wow Jennifer, I bet Bert and Albert would be really happy to know that you reacted to their story that way!

[allisonhogan]

Great job! Way to go Albert and Bert!

[mommahoops]

I worked very closely with Albert and Bert in the "institution". I do have to admit that you did not show all the happy times and pictures from our trips , parties etc.. and many of the skills and posessions they have from our shopping trips and many hours of skill traing.. I am so happy for you Albert..You look so happy..and yes you are in a better place. But please, I hope those watching this realize that we were not all bad ..and I loved Albert very much...

[TheMrsBoz]

Awesome! How great for Albert and Bert!