Being born with a disability or acquiring one later in life can be a difficult challenge for anyone to overcome. A person with a disability, without any previous notice, is suddenly faced with several issues that need to be addressed. Some of these issues are: learning to cope and live with a disability, accepting having a disability, adjusting to a new lifestyle, and, perhaps, most importantly, dealing with people’s attitudes towards one’s disability.

Good support system necessary

In order for a person with a disability to overcome the challenges he/she faces, it is essential to have a good support system. This can include family members, friends and people who are involved in the individual’s life. The Independent Living Philosophy promotes the belief that persons with disabilities have the same right to be treated with dignity and respect as any other individual and respecting the individual’s decisions allows him/her to take charge of their life, thus becoming independent to the best of his/her ability. It is a concept readily accepted in some cultures, but not all.

Strong family bonds – a two sided coin

Those who are new to the philosophy do not embrace the Independent Living philosophy especially when it contradicts their cultural beliefs. Because family is so important in Latino culture, family members believe that it is their responsibility to care for one another under any circumstance. In many immigrant families it is unheard of for adult children to leave home when they turn 18 or 21 years of age. They often live with their parents until they get married. If those same adult children attend college or secure employment after completing high school they often choose to live with their parents while doing so. Having such a close relationship among family members is an advantage for the most part, especially if a member is going through a difficult time. The bond that characterizes the Latino family is very strong. One could say that this familial bond is one of the best qualities of Latino culture, but it can also be detrimental for a person with a disability seeking independence.

Being "taken care of" vs. becoming independent

In many immigrant Latino homes a family member who has a disability is seen as an individual that needs to be "taken care of". Culturally it is the family’s duty to do so and, more often than not, the family can become overprotective. Suddenly the person becomes a "victim" of the disability instead of a "person with a disability". The family begins to make decisions on their behalf as part of their obligation and commitment to care for them as family members. The idea of assisting the person in overcoming the challenges of having a disability and working towards becoming independent is unrealistic to the family and the individual as well. They may believe that the person’s life is over, not understanding that nothing could be further from the truth.

Philosophy that may contradict cultural belief

These issues are not new to those of us who serve this community. Trust, understanding, and respect of cultural differences can create a positive setting for introducing a philosophy that seemingly contradicts cultural belief. Only when independent living philosophy is introduced in a culturally appropriate manner can people of immigrant ethnic groups benefit from the opportunities available to persons with disabilities living in this society.

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