The new movie “Me Before You” is drawing criticism from a number of disability advocate groups for its portrayal of a disabled character. We look at how popular media portrays disabled people, and how it differs from real life. We also learn about a guitar maker from Eau Claire, and discuss Muhummad Ali and race.
Featured in this Show
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Muhammad Ali And Race
Tributes are pouring in for the late Muhammad Ali, who once proclaimed himself as ‘The Greatest.’ But did America only come to accept and embrace the outspoken Ali, who talked at large about his race and religion, after he was largely stripped of his voice? A guest commentator discusses Ali’s legacy and how issues of race defined his life and career.
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Wisconsin Life: Wisconsin Guitar Maker
On today’s Wisconsin Life we’ll hear about Gordy Bischoff, an Eau Claire luthier who has been building and repairing guitars and ukuleles for decades. Bischoff’s acoustic guitars are used by such acclaimed artists as Justin Vernon and Willy Porter.
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Warner Brothers and MGM’s new film “Me Before You” follows the story of quirky Louisa, who is hired by a wealthy English family to care for their son Will, who is quadriplegic following an accident. Marketed it as a tear-jerker romance, many people who advocate for disability rights found the film offensive for its representation of Will’s character and his desire to commit suicide. We’re joined by Jennifer Laszlo Mizrahi, President of the nonprofit RespectAbility, to talk about the film and how people with disabilities are portrayed in the media.
Episode Credits
- Rob Ferrett Host
- Veronica Rueckert Host
- Chris Malina Producer
- Karl Christenson Producer
- J. Carlisle Larsen Producer
- Lawrence Ross Guest
- Gordy Bischoff Guest
- Jennifer Laszlo Mizrahi Guest
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