M y applause to Barbara Isaacs and Jahi Chikwendiu for the superb article about artist Jessie Dunahoo and the Minds Wide Open Art Center. This article proves that talent is often overlooked or locked inside these incredible individuals.

We have much to learn from this segment of our society if only we allow them the opportunity to express it.

As an artist and an advocate for children with emotional, mental and behavioral disabilities, I often see just how depressed and shut out these children and their families become from coping within an apathetic and inflexible society. Seldom does the general public have the opportunity to experience the many gifts or abilities that individuals with disabilities can offer or are capable of contributing.

My kudos to Bruce Burris, director of the art center, and assistant director Crystal Bader for the wonderful program they provide for this community.

I challenge others, including organized religious groups, to include or create opportunities for people with disabilities. If only everyone could walk a mile in these people's shoes, our world would become more sensitive and might think to include people with disabilities more often.

Gina G. Burns, owner of G. Burns Graphic Services in Lexington, is communications coordinator for the Coalition for Reform in Special Education Services, an association of parents and educators working to improve the education of children with special needs in Fayette County's public schools.

At issue

Nov. 14 Herald-Leader article by Barbara Isaacs, ``An impressive touch of `genius'; deaf, blind man creates his own space in the world''

Published Monday, November 27, 2000, in the Herald-Leader

Focus on individual succeeds