Disability Leaders Protest Oscars

by Casey J. Bortnick
Photo by Ben Shutts
RNEWS NY, February 23, 2009

As many in Rochester celebrated Oscar night Sunday, some were protesting. Among the awards handed out was an honorary award to actor, director, writer and producer Jerry Lewis. But some say celebrating Lewis does them a disservice.

“We want equality. We want rights,” said Diane Coleman of the Center for Disability Rights.

While most spent the evening inside the George Eastman House enjoying the Oscars, a small group of disabled activists stood outside.

“We’re here, obviously in the very cold weather because we think that is a very important message,” Coleman said.

It was a message against the academy’s choice for the Humanitarian Award.

“I am a former Jerry’s Kid,” said Coleman.

Coleman once benefited from the fundraising efforts of Jerry Lewis, but she says the price was too high.

“We feel that the message he’s delivered to the public for 40 years is we are pitiful creatures, those of us with disabilities cannot work. We are a half a person was one of his comments,” Coleman said.

One Rochester entertainer said Lewis’ charity work should not be overshadowed.

“This political correctness has got the point where it’s absurd,” said Rochester radio personality Brother Wease. “I’m politically correct, but everybody makes a joke. And by the way, here’s a bulletin: He’s a comedian,” Wease added.

The academy president Sid Ganiss said Lewis is a legendary comedian who has not only brought laughter to millions around the world, but has also helped thousands upon thousands by raising funds and awareness for those suffering from muscular dystrophy.

Brother Wease says Lewis been an icon for 40 years and the Oscar is overdue.

“Don’t be protesting Jerry; he’s a humanitarian,” Wease said.

Entertainment or not Coleman says Lewis’ words have done damage. She hopes America kept that in mind when Lewis accepted one of Hollywood’s biggest honors.

“We object to the portrayal that he did for 40 years that we’re half a Person and if they at least learn that maybe they’ll look at us differently tomorrow,” Coleman added

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