I’ve always wondered why some people were called legally blind while others were called visually impaired. In my opinion, ‘legally blind’ almost sounds racist. As if you need to qualify to be ‘legally blind’. Make that make sense. This also shows a huge display of intersectionality. This is also an example of stereotyping.
Now, let’s address the controversy surrounding intersectionality. Critics often view it as a form of political correctness on steroids. They argue that it pits people against each other in an “oppression Olympics” rather than promoting inclusivity.
However, it’s essential to recognize that intersectionality aims to understand and address complex inequalities, not create divisions.
If 20/20 vision is the standard of optimal eyesight than why are there different versions?
There’s levels to this.
“Legally blind” is a recognized classification for individuals with significant visual impairment, while “illegally blind” is not a standard term in medical or legal contexts.
Legally Blind
Definition: The term “legally blind” refers to a specific level of visual impairment defined by government agencies, particularly in the United States. To be classified as legally blind, a person must meet one of the following criteria:
Visual Acuity: A corrected vision of 20/200 or worse in the better-seeing eye. This means that what a person with normal vision can see at 200 feet, a legally blind person can only see at 20 feet, even with corrective lenses.
Visual Field: A visual field of 20 degrees or less, which is often referred to as “tunnel vision”.
Implications: Being classified as legally blind can affect a person’s eligibility for various benefits, including disability assistance, vocational training, and access to low vision aids. It does not imply total blindness; many individuals who are legally blind still have some usable vision.
Illegally Blind
Clarification: The term “illegally blind” is not recognized in medical or legal terminology. It does not have a defined meaning and is not used to classify any form of visual impairment. The concept of being “illegally blind” may arise from misunderstandings or miscommunications regarding legal blindness or total blindness. In essence, there is no legal or medical framework that supports the existence of “illegally blind” as a classification.
Conclusion
In summary, “legally blind” is a formal classification used to determine eligibility for various services and benefits for individuals with significant visual impairments.
In contrast, “illegally blind” is not a recognized term and does not have any established meaning in the context of vision impairment. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for navigating discussions about visual disabilities and the support available to those affected.
This is The view from where I Sit versus the view from where you Sit!!!
Legally blind: What does it mean? – All About Vision
What Is Considered Legally Blind – Healthline
https://eyemantra.in/eye-diseases/legal-blindness/
https://english.stackexchange.com/questions/155719/whats-the-origin-of-rob-someone-blind
blind | Etymology of blind by etymonline
Legally blind: Definition, treatments, and support – Medical News Today
Understanding Legally Blind: Definition & Causes
What does it mean to be legally blind? | Lentiamo
What Does It Mean to Be Legally Blind? – WebMD
Evolution and Inclusive Language: Creating a New Term for Visual Disabilities – BlindNewWorld
Before Braille: A Brief History of Visual Impairment and Education PT 1
https://www.colourblindawareness.org/colour-blindness/
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