HYN Update

There seems to be a lot of talk about the show "How's Your News?" on the WS message boards. Some people are obviously uncomfortable with the concept. I admit that I was at first. I mean, what if people thought the show was funny and laughed?

*GASP*

It's a risk, for sure, to shine a light on what makes some of our children and peers different. To create vulnerability by not knowing how people will react to being interviewed by someone with a disability. But what if, along with the differences, viewers recognize a bit of themselves, too? Might it cause them to treat others a little differently in the future? I think what ends up being really exposed in the end is what's underneath the skin of the people being interviewed. And that makes some people really uncomfortable.

This show is not for everyone, and I respect that. I definitely share the same concerns about the exploitative nature of some forms of entertainment. There is some really awful stuff out there I choose to avoid. However, the more I learn about this particular show, the more I fall head over heels in love with it and the people in it. I hope it opens a few minds and hearts. Maybe it will even demystify and humanize disabilities in general. Who knows. I think it really holds a mirror up to how our society views and interacts with others, disabilities or not.

What it comes down to for me, though, is that just watching these people have a fabulous time makes me smile so much my face begins to hurt.

Here is the new trailer for the show, which airs February 8th on MTV. I have decided to record the program and throw a premiere party on Sunday, February 15th at 3 p.m. Cocktails and appetizers will be provided. If time allows, I will share the original documentary which inspired the TV series. Send me an e-mail if you would like to attend.