In the late 1800s, several American cities passed what became
known as Ugly Laws.
These laws made it illegal for people with visible disabilities, deformities, or severe illnesses to appear in public. The wording was vague, but the intent was clear: cities wanted streets that looked clean, orderly, and comfortable.
Police could fine or arrest anyone considered
“unsightly.” Poverty and disability became punishable offenses.
Versions of these laws existed in Chicago, San
Francisco, Denver, and Omaha, among others. Enforcement varied, but the message
was consistent. Some people were not welcome in public spaces.
The laws slowly disappeared in the early
twentieth century as attitudes shifted, and legal challenges grew. No grand
repeal. No apology.
Just quiet removal—and a reminder of how
easily society once tried to hide what made it uncomfortable.
No comments:
Post a Comment