Blogger Widgets Ender-Chan's Thoughts: July 2014

Friday, July 4, 2014

Inclusion Symbolism in July 4 2014 Google Doodle


Have you ever been told to be normal? That you are too low functioning, weird, slow, or making excuses? That if you don't learn the "correct" way you can't learn at all? I think this Google doodle will open some minds with the symbolism I found in it.

Synopsis (spoiler alert): An avid young flutist marched excitedly in the parade, but a smaller stride proved disadvantageous among the more experienced musicians.On top of that ,the young musician attempted to play the piccolo holding it like an inline instruments. Each note from their instrument lead to him/her stumbling. Frustrated, s/he used all of their air to produce a note, only to fall flat. The flutist blew another pitiful note hoping to have his/her efforts recognized. A trumpet player, apparently the band's leader, inspired the flutist to play their piccolo the way they should and lead the band. 

The flutist represents someone with special needs/a disability/(insert preferred term here). A shorter stride means they have to work harder to stay in step with the rest of the band.

Holding the piccolo early in the parade represents the "correct" way of learning, which obviously did not work for the flutist. It set him/her up for failure.

The trumpet player represents friends, teachers, therapists, parents, and other supportive people. This musician's genuine kindness inspired the flutist to play a solo and lead the band.

Holding the piccolo during the solo represents success after receiving appropriate accommodations and services along with general support.

The parade represented a mainstream environment and its members represented typical people.

Don't force the flutists of the world to play their instrument like a trumpet.