We are people with all the hopes, dreams, passions, and faults of everyone else. Eighty percent of us are born into families with no history of dwarfism.

In this quote, Billy Barty emphasizes the shared humanity of individuals with dwarfism, pointing out that they possess the same hopes, dreams, passions, and faults as anyone else. By stating this, Barty challenges the common stereotypes or assumptions that may be made about people with dwarfism, reminding the listener that they are individuals with a full range of human experiences and emotions. The quote seeks to break down barriers of otherness and highlight the universality of human nature.

Barty also brings attention to the fact that the majority of people with dwarfism are born into families with no prior history of dwarfism, which means they are not defined by their condition. This statement helps to further humanize individuals with dwarfism, emphasizing that they are not inherently different from the general population, but simply people who may have different physical characteristics. The mention of families also suggests that those with dwarfism grow up in environments that may not always be centered around their condition, reinforcing the idea that they live ordinary lives just like others.

The origin of this quote is rooted in Barty’s long career as an actor and activist for individuals with dwarfism. As the founder of the Little People of America (LPA), Barty worked tirelessly to promote visibility and understanding for people with dwarfism. His words reflect his commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of people with dwarfism, aiming to create more inclusive and respectful societal attitudes.

Ultimately, Barty’s quote highlights the importance of recognizing the shared humanity of individuals with dwarfism and acknowledging that they experience the same full spectrum of emotions and life experiences as others. His statement encourages empathy and understanding, challenging societal views that often marginalize or label people based on physical differences.