Paralympian Jonnie Peacock is reportedly taking part in this years strictly come dancing, the first disabled contestant on the main show.
I welcome the real inclusion of disabled people in mainstream programmes, it makes disabilty seem just an every day event and makes it visible. Being part of a popular entertainment programme not related to disability is a good thing if its presented appropriately.
The voting system concerns me though. I hope he gets votes because he is good, because he deserves to and not just because he is disabled. British audiences are known for liking those they view as the underdog. This could actually harm the cause of disabled people, rather than further it, the sympathy factor has much to do with the negative attitude that disabled people aren't real people, and not capable of real lives, with appropriate support, just like everyone else.
Why has he been asked, and given the length of time its been broadcast why now? Is this a sticking plaster approach to the often poor public and estabishment attitude to disabled people. Is it meant to prove we are viewed positively because I'm not fooled. Any official attitude change needs to be seen as consistent to make a real difference. Does the BBC just want to be seen as inclusive so they have trotted out a disabled person for the purpose? Again relative one offs won't change much, and I'm not taken in by tokeism. If the aim is to use a disabled person to prove a point in favour will do nothing for the good of the disability rights movement, it could cause serious harm.
That said this isn't a rant at Jonnie Peacock, I hope this does make a positive difference and he does really well. I'm a huge Strictly fan, and a long time disability activist, I want to be cheering on both counts, time will tell whether I am.
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