The Counsel of Trent #973 - FFAF: Was It Ever Illegal To Be Ugly?
Dec 13, 2024
Explore the dark past of 'ugly laws' in America and their impact on individuals with visible disabilities. Discover the harsh realities that these laws imposed during urban growth, aiming to maintain societal aesthetics. Delve into the legacy of these laws through stories like that of Charlie No-Face, intertwining issues of homelessness and mental health. The conversation champions compassion over punishment, highlighting the need for a more humane approach to disability and inclusion in society.
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Ugly Laws
- So-called "ugly laws" existed in American history, criminalizing public appearances of people with disabilities or disfigurements.
- These ordinances stemmed from a desire to maintain order and aesthetics in growing urban environments.
Origins and Justifications
- San Francisco pioneered these laws in 1867, driven by rapid urbanization, overcrowding, and poverty.
- Some justified them as public health measures, mistakenly believing disabilities could spread illness.
Impact on Livelihoods
- These laws prevented disabled people from earning a living, forcing them out of street vending and performances.
- A Cleveland man with disabilities lost his newspaper job due to such laws, highlighting their impact.