Ending Institutional America: William Bronston, PUBLIC HOSTAGE, PUBLIC RANSOM

Writer's Voice with Francesca Rheannon

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. William Bronston, a renowned advocate for disability rights and social justice.

Dr. Bronston shares his incredible journey from a young medical student to a leading figure in the fight to protect the rights of people with disabilities. He discusses his experiences working at the Willowbrook State School, his efforts in the deinstitutionalization movement, and the transformative impact of the landmark Willowbrook case.

His book is Public Hostage: Public Ransom: Ending Institutional America.

“Willowbrook was a turning point, not just for the people who lived there, but for the entire movement towards equality and human dignity.” – Dr. William Bronston

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Listen to Bronston read an excerpt from Public Hostage, Public Ransom

Key Words: William Bronston, Willowbrook State School, deinstitutionalization, disability rights

Read more: Ending Institutional America: William Bronston, PUBLIC HOSTAGE, PUBLIC RANSOM

Show Notes

Early Life and Career Beginnings

• Dr. Bronston’s early inspirations and motivations for pursuing a career in medicine.
• His first encounters with disability rights issues and the profound impact on his career trajectory.

The Willowbrook State School Experience

• Detailed account of Dr. Bronston’s work at Willowbrook State School.
• Shocking conditions and human rights abuses witnessed at Willowbrook.
• The pivotal role Dr. Bronston played in exposing these conditions to the public.

Advocacy and Legal Battles

• The landmark Willowbrook case and its implications for disability rights.
• Dr. Bronston’s collaboration with other advocates, lawyers, and journalists.
• The process of deinstitutionalization and the shift towards community-based care.

Ongoing Efforts and Future Vision

• Reflections on the progress made in disability rights since the Willowbrook case.
• Current challenges and areas needing attention in the fight for equality and justice for people with disabilities.
• Dr. Bronston’s vision for the future of disability rights.

Watch Geraldo RIvera’s documentary, Willowbrook: The Last Disgrace