Sharisa Kochmeister 15, types a message at a press conference organized by TASH and ADAPT in response to the "Frontline" show on Facilitated Communication. Sharisa is being facilitated by her father, Jan Kochmeister, who provided no physical support to Sharisa as she typed the message below. "Frontline" has over two hours of videotape of Sharisa. Although PBS used some of the tape to promote "Frontline, " none was used in the actual show.
Observing on Jan's left is Dr. Arthur Schawlow -- Nobel Prize winner in physics. Dr. Schawlow was an early pioneer of FC, using it with his son ten years ago. "Frontline" showed videotape of an interview they conducted with Dr. Schawlow but never mentioned his Nobel Prize, 7 honorary doctorates, or his Presidential Medal for Science.
To be denied the freedom of speech--a basic civil right! They impugned my integrity and insulted my intelligence. They told evil lies in the guise of honest reportage.
I deserve to be heard. My name and image are used, why not my words? We need to fight bigotry with one loud unified voice.
I have a voice now--they will not return me to prison. They would not do this to Helen Keller and survive unscathed. They will not do it to us either. It's our turn now.
Thank you all for listening.
Sharisa Kochmeister