Persecution happens throughout the world. Different groups are constantly being persecuted fro who they are or what they believe. One group in particular that is persecuted often times are the mentally disabled. The mentally disabled are often persecuted by society in general or in some cases by public officials. People who are disabled should still have equal rights. The government should work towards a common goal to stop discrimination against the disabled. Mentally disabled individuals should have equal opportunity and equal pay for work that they might do. The mentally disabled should not have limited to access things that other Americans have access to. The government should work towards producing more funds to aid the mentally disabled. The mentally disabled should not be sent to jail or sentenced to death under any circumstances. The mentally disabled are often persecuted because people feel the need to be superior to someone. Mentally disabled individuals are often weaker or less aware of certain situations, so people feel that they can take advantage. As a result of the persecution of the mentally disabled many do not receive equal opportunities or equal pay. This results in homelessness. Other results are biased assessments regarding the mentally disabled within the criminal justice system. One major event that can be related to this is, the story involving Richard Lapointe, who was wrongfully accused and is now serving a life sentence in prison.
Richard Lapointe suffers from the Dandy Walker Syndrome. This condition is rare. The symptoms of this condition are swelling of the brain and brain damage. Lapointe is serving a life sentence after being accused of raping and killing his wife's grandmother. One man who is trying to help Richard is, Perske. He is an advocator for people with mental disabilities. Perske believes Lapointe is innocent. He says the traits for a mentally disabled individual are the ambitions to helpful in order to disguise signs of limitation. Richard was told that there was evidence and an eyewitness that pinned him to the crime. Richard admitted to the crime after false pretense. In his confession he says if there is evidence that proves he committed the crime then he committed the crime, but he does not remember being there. Perske published a book called Unequal Justice. The book discusses the topic on the mentally disabled being in prison. Perske is still working on a way to free Richard Lapointe, but he needs DNA evidence and skilled legal work. Perske's life work involves helping individuals like Lapointe, who were wrongfully convicted of crimes they did not commit. He helps mentally disabled people who have legal problems.