RespectAbility Entertainment Media Fellow Steven McCoy with Whoopi Goldberg
Speaking prior to the ReelAbilities Film Festival’s opening night ceremony, Whoopi Goldberg shared profound insights into her journey with dyslexia, emphasizing how she reframed her challenges as strengths rather than limitations.
“For me, it’s never been a source of shame,” Goldberg said in an interview with RespectAbility on the red carpet. “It was frustrating because they placed me in classes where I struggled due to the way my brain processes information. However, my memory for details and the ability to recall conversations from years ago are my gifts. I see them as my superpowers.”
Her perspective on self-acceptance and empowerment deeply resonated with me, especially as someone who has grappled with insecurities and self-expression. I expressed my personal gratitude to Goldberg for redefining conventional standards of beauty. Goldberg’s confidence in her own beauty left a lasting impact on me.
During our conversation, I also highlighted the influence of Goldberg’s work, as well as her close friend Robin Williams, in inspiring me to tackle personal challenges and find my voice.
As a child, learning that Whoopi Goldberg had a disability gave me hope and comfort. Seeing her success despite societal labels of “disability” reassured me that greatness is achievable regardless of challenges. I would write school papers on her during Black History Month, so it was truly a full circle moment for me. Her presence instilled in me the belief that labels do not define one’s entire life.
At the festival, Goldberg premiered the movie EZRA, an exploration of family dynamics through the story of a stand-up comic and his autistic son. The film beautifully captures the complexities of their relationship and their journey toward understanding and connection.
Goldberg’s authenticity and advocacy for representation stand as a testament to the power of embracing differences and celebrating individual gifts. EZRA further showcases her commitment to inclusive storytelling in the entertainment industry. Her acceptance of an award during the event highlighted her ongoing impact and influence in promoting diversity and empowerment.
In addition, Goldberg is slated to release her new book titled Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me in May. The memoir highlights the moment when her mother returned home from the hospital without any recollection of her children. This became a pivotal event that marked a turning point in Goldberg’s life.
