This document discusses disability awareness and the experience of being disabled in America. It notes that while political and legal changes have increased independence for disabled individuals, societal attitudes have been slower to change. American culture often values traits like self-control and success that do not align with some disabilities, leading to prejudice and stigma. Common stereotypes portray the disabled as sinful, sick, or broken. Overcoming daily barriers and managing disabilities requires significant effort. There are over 56 million disabled Americans, which would make disability the largest "state" if grouped as one. Increased understanding and acceptance of disabled individuals as whole people is needed.