Critical Review of No Pity by Joseph P. Shapiro

No Pity, Joseph P. Shapiro examines the history and current state of the disability rights movement in the United States. The book focuses on the struggles and activism of disabled individuals and their advocates, who have fought for equal rights and access to society’s benefits and opportunities. The author’s research and analysis provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal, political, and social factors that have shaped the disability rights movement and its achievements.

The book’s structure

consists of eight chapters that cover different topics related to the disability rights movement. In the first chapter, Shapiro introduces the reader to the concept of disability and the social and medical models of disability. He explains how disability is not only a physical or mental condition but also a social construct that affects individuals’ opportunities and experiences. The author also presents the history of the disability rights movement in the United States and highlights the contributions of pivotal figures, such as Ed Roberts and Justin Dart.

The second and third chapters

focus on the legal and policy frameworks that have affected disabled individuals’ rights and access to services. Shapiro explains how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 was a significant milestone in the disability rights movement, as it prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities and required public entities to provide accommodations. However, the author also critiques the limitations and loopholes in the ADA’s implementation and enforcement, such as the lack of effective regulation and enforcement agencies.

The following chapters

delve into specific areas of social and economic life where disabled individuals have faced discrimination, such as healthcare, education, employment, and transportation. Shapiro provides statistics and examples of the barriers and inequalities that disabled people have encountered in these areas, such as inaccessible buildings, inadequate benefits and services, and negative attitudes and stereotypes. The author also presents the activism and advocacy efforts that disabled individuals and their organizations have undertaken to challenge and overcome these barriers, such as sit-ins, protests, and legal actions.

In the last two chapters

Shapiro addresses the current challenges and future prospects of the disability rights movement. He emphasizes the ongoing struggles of disabled individuals, particularly those who face intersecting forms of oppression, such as race, gender, sexuality, or poverty. The author also discusses the potential impact of technological advancements, such as assistive devices and social media, on disabled individuals’ empowerment and participation in society. Finally, Shapiro calls for a renewed commitment to the principles and goals of the disability rights movement, such as the recognition of disability as a natural part of human diversity and the pursuit of social justice and inclusion.

Overall, No Pity is a well-researched and engaging book that sheds light on the history, challenges, and achievements of the disability rights movement. The author’s interdisciplinary approach, which combines legal, political, and social analyses, provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex nature of disability and its intersections with power and policy. Additionally, Shapiro’s writing style is clear and accessible, making the book suitable for both academic and general audiences. However, the book could benefit from more intersectional perspectives and voices, particularly from disabled individuals from diverse backgrounds.