Off The Shelf

A Dutch library is “lending out” individuals representing marginalized groups, including gays, Gypsies, and people with physical disabilities. Library patrons can take these individuals to a nearby cafeteria and ask them questions for an hour. I get what the library is trying to do, but I’m not sure I agree with the methodology. It seems to reinforce the notion that there is something exotic or decidedly Other about these individuals and that they can be safely approached in a controlled environment. At the same time, I understand that the average person’s social circle may never include people from these groups. But shouldn’t we be more concerned about why these people are marginalized, instead of making them into cultural exhibits?
But in the spirit of experimentation, I’m going to lend myself out to all of you. I’ll answer the first five questions that are e-mailed to my Gmail account, regardless of content. If you’ve had burning questions you’ve wanted to ask about my disability or anything else, now’s your chance. The identities of all questioners will be kept anonymous, of course. Let the interrogation begin.