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Mariss Bode, a talented actress known for her role in the film adaptation of the beloved musical ‘Wicked’, has recently taken a stand against the ableism she faced following the movie’s release. The 24-year-old, who has been using a wheelchair since a car accident at age 11, portrays Nessarose, the sister of the protagonist Elphaba.
Despite the film’s success, Bode has been subjected to hurtful jokes and comments regarding her disability, prompting her to address these issues publicly.
Facing criticism and ableist remarks
In a candid TikTok video, Bode expressed her feelings about the backlash against her character, who is also wheelchair-bound.
While she acknowledged that audiences are entitled to their opinions about Nessarose’s complex nature, she condemned the derogatory comments that target her disability. Bode emphasized that these remarks are not just jokes; they reflect a deeper societal issue regarding the perception of disabled individuals.
“Aggressive comments and jokes about Nessa’s disability itself is deeply uncomfortable, because disability is not fictional,” Bode stated. She highlighted the importance of representation in media but stressed that it is not the sole solution for the challenges faced by the disabled community.
Bode urged non-disabled individuals to engage in self-reflection and to actively listen to the voices of disabled people.
The importance of understanding and empathy
Bode’s message resonates with many in the disabled community who have long fought against stereotypes and misconceptions.
She called on her followers to educate themselves about the disability rights movement and to support other disabled individuals. “I need a lot of y’all (non-disabled people) to do the work,” she said, encouraging her audience to unlearn their biases and to foster a culture of empathy and understanding.
In her video, Bode also addressed the hurtful nature of the jokes made about her inability to stand. Comments like “stand up for yourself” and “I guess you can’t stand him” are not only unoriginal but also perpetuate a culture of mockery rather than inclusion. Bode’s plea for respect and understanding is a reminder that humor should never come at the expense of someone’s dignity.
Encouraging a shift in perspective
As ‘Wicked’ continues to captivate audiences, Bode hopes that viewers will take to heart the musical’s core themes of understanding and acceptance. “One of the major themes within ‘Wicked’ is having the ability to listen and understand one another,” she implored. This message is particularly relevant in today’s society, where the conversation around disability and representation is more important than ever.
In light of her experiences, Bode’s advocacy serves as a powerful reminder of the need for change. By challenging ableism and promoting awareness, she is not only standing up for herself but also for countless others who face similar struggles. As the conversation around disability evolves, it is crucial for everyone to engage in meaningful dialogue and to support one another in the pursuit of a more inclusive world.
