Ian Dury - Spasticus Autisticus -

I have just watched a DVD. "Sex And Drugs And Rock'nRoll".
It is a story of Ian Dury - the founder of Blockheads, singer,
songwriter, musician. His lyrics were witty, provocative and
gave inspiration to many.

As a child, Dury suffered from polio, spend time in the home for
children with disabilities .Watching the flashbacks, the homes approach
to these kids seemed to me, emotionless, cold and degrading. It is
important to know, that the word"spastic" was haled derogative only in
the early 1980s.

In 1981, Ian Dury was asked to write a song for charity. It was also
supposed to boost his carreer. And so he did write a song.
"Spasticus Autisticus". Provocation sang to "those in the normal
world". Strangely enough, it didn't last on air for a long time, as some
members of public were offended by it. Strangely enough those offended,
were NOT the disabled people. As Dury said himself, people with
disabilities don't want sympathy, they want respect.

I personally like this song very much. It is a statement shouted right
into the face of false charities, narrow minded system and society.
It is what I want for my daughter: respect, inclusion and appreciation.

Here it is. If you think you might be offended, don't listen: