The annual One Book project, put on by the Kern County Library, held a panel discussion and resource fair on Sept. 13 at the Levan Center.
The panel was held at 11 a.m. where five panelists gave a great insight on challenges that not only students but also community members with disabilities face. The event was centered around the One Book Project which was started in 2002.
The panel discussion focused the lives of those who have disabilities. The panelists consisted of members from the shared their own personal experiences with issues they have faced in the past and still currently face in the community.
Many topics were discussed, which included, identity, life experiences, accessibility vs accommodation and many more were touched on that morning.
When asked about personal definition of disability one of the panelist Dr. Terri Goldstien said, “One of the issues is that we call disabilities many different things that people can’t really connect with.”
The panel concluded on other important subjects regarding accessibility of resources, like transportation and education were also discussed.
They gave insight on their own personal challenges with these issues that make it hard to go around the community or on campus.
The panel also spoke about the stigma of disability and why many students find it hard to accept help from programs that are set in place for any of our classmates that deal with disabilities. Programs like the Disabled Student Programs and Services are set in place for ensuring that students who need assistance can get the education they deserve.
Josaiah Thomas, a fellow student who also works in the Veterans Resource Center and DSPS said, “You are worth it, this is your experience. My job is to advocate for you.”
After the panel discussion, a resource fair was also held for information on services in Bakersfield. The groups that participated included Dr. T’s Inclusion Solutions, DSPS, NOR, Kern Transit, Behavioral Health and Recovery and Bakersfield ARC. The events were provided thanks to the One Book Project which aims to encourage sharing experiences through a single book. More One Book Premier Events will be held later through the year.