Last night I had the pleasure and great honor of attending a fundraising event which 10 photographers showcased photographs of 20 women with disabilities. The idea is to generate a better general perception of beauty and strength. Here’s an excerpt from the site:

“Uncensored Life: Raw Beauty is an innovative visual arts project designed to inspire the public to create new perceptions, transform stereotypes and breakthrough personal obstacles by expanding awareness of women with physical challenges”

I was certainly awestruck as I slowly made my way through the gallery. Some of these women I already knew. I was glad to meet the ones that I didn’t. As someone with a disability I tend to hold a certain respect for other people with disabilities. It’s sort of an unspoken code, if you see a fellow gimp-even if you don’t know them you both either just nod or simple say howdy. But I’ve always had a special respect for women with disabilities. Ok, slow down there… don’t bounce off your rocker yelling ‘Discrimination!’ or ‘Feminist!’ just yet. Let me explain: I know first-hand, the issues and obstacles that every disabled person deals with on a daily basis. Now throw in menstruation, child birth, dating, makeup, nail polish, and a few other issues and… BAM! You’ve just increased the complexity tenfold. Therefore my hat’s off to those gimps of the opposite sex.

Check out the site, some pictures are there and there’s information on the models, the photographers, and everyone who had a hand in organizing this event.