Dr. Yadira Boston calls out adults: “Stop Bullying Differently Abled People”

GREAT BAY--Dr. Yadira Boston of the CLIMB Foundation on Thursday issued an urgent call for adults on St. Martin to end the bullying of differently abled children and adults who require more time, accommodations, or specialized care to complete tasks. She stressed that much of the stigma and hate faced by these individuals comes directly from adults, including those who use social media to mock or belittle people who may work at a slower pace.

"The stigma that perpetuates social barriers and fosters hate toward these individuals overwhelmingly originates from adults in our community. It is disheartening to witness grown individuals using platforms like Facebook to belittle those who may take longer to accomplish certain tasks. This harmful behavior not only damages the self-esteem of these individuals but also profoundly affects their families. “So, what if they take long?” she said.

This behavior, she noted, harms not only the individuals themselves but also their families. Dr. Boston condemned a recent incident in which an adult referred to some children as “the dunce children,” calling such language unacceptable and rooted in a false sense of superiority based on speed or ease of task completion.  

She said while schools continue working toward more inclusive environments, she emphasized that they cannot meet this challenge alone and that true inclusion requires a community-wide shift in mindset. She urged the public to recognize the equal dignity of every individual, regardless of ability, and to help build a culture grounded in compassion and respect and support. "Adults stop the bullying!" she concluded firmly.

Editor's Note: International organizations have long warned that discrimination against people with disabilities often begins with the subtle attitudes and behaviors of adults. The World Health Organization notes that stigma, negative language, and social exclusion are major barriers that prevent children and adults with disabilities from thriving in their schools, workplaces, and communities.

UNICEF has similarly stressed that when adults model ridicule, impatience, or intolerance, those behaviors are repeated by children and reinforced across generations, deepening inequality and emotional harm. Both agencies emphasize that respectful language, inclusive attitudes, and supportive environments are essential to protecting the dignity and rights of every person, and that communities must take active responsibility to challenge harmful behavior whenever it appears.

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