Strategy to Create a New Beginning

My work with I-ASC reached a new high when I got to go to France (ok, it was only via Zoom, but better than nothing) to catch up with activist, intellectual, and Renaissance man, Nicolas Joncour (NJ).   Read on to find out how easy it is to see why Nicolas is a distinguished “Influencer” in I-ASC’s Spelltember campaign.  ~Giorgena Sarantopoulos

GS: Nicolas, thank you so much for your time.  Many of us know you as this cool speller/typer living in fashionable France.  Tell us about your life these days – how are you living and what you are enjoying?

NJ: I have been living in my own apartment since September and my aspirations are taking great strides. For about two months I dedicated myself to my activities of defense of the rights of disabled people, to the work of research around subjects like the anti-ableist fight, and alternatives to the disempowerment and the fatigue that we undergo. Because often we are only allowed to make a mediocre existence for ourselves, that is to say, we are forced to survive and not allowed to live. I am looking for a strategy to create a new beginning. I would like to pass on my hope and my spirit of struggle.

I am still studying law even though it is difficult and even though the university does not allow me to get accommodations for my needs. It is very rich to have access to a buzzing hive of legal and socio-political information and news. I am often happy when I discuss these topics because it is really important to me. I have a lot of work, sometimes I make plans in my head and I should try to talk about them more. Also, I often see my best friend and I have a lot of fun climbing and walking outside.

GS: You are an active member of the Spellers & Allies social activist group.  Can you tell me about the group and also what you think of the experience of being in this group?

NJ: The gratitude I long for is due to a great capacity for collective support and sharing in this beloved group. I love you.

You are helping to shape an accessible and welcoming future for nonspeakers.  Describe a scene from our future world in which nonspeakers are fully recognized and included. 

GS: They love you too!  

NJ: In such an amazing society, I will be the guarantor of our rights and I will work to maintain the freedom of people with disabilities so that real social change is preserved. So many of the barriers of the old ableist society would be seen as old memories. I am very uncertain if this is actually possible, however, it is my wonderful dream to be able to live as a fulfilled person in a world without borders between people, borders due to the dysfunction of look towards our differences.

GS: You were recognized as an Influencer, and your youtube channel* was mentioned in one of your nominations.  Tell us about your channel and how you hope to influence your viewers?  

NJ: I have always wanted to make my typing an instrument of communication with others, and today I can tell and share the tiring but fabulous and vivifying dream of equity to which I aspire. I want to allow people to have access to tools that aim at emancipation. I want the liberation of the non-speakers. I’ve met a lot of activists from the disability community, I’ve participated in international conferences and workshops on independent living, self-advocacy, intersectionality, etc. I like some of the YouTubers like Agony Autie. I also believe that everyone I meet brings something to me.

GS: What have you enjoyed learning about in your studies, or in your spare time?

NJ: J’adore les conversations avec les sujets de debat sur le droit, la philosophie, les sujets que me rendre motivés l’actualité de la vie des personnes ayant a mener des luttes pour une meilleure société.

I love conversations around subjects of debate about law, philosophy, subjects that motivate me, and news about the lives of people who struggle for a better society.

GS:  That’s probably why you’re such a role model for others, and a lot of nonspeakers.  You are someone that everyone looks up to, for so many reasons.

Imagine a map of the world. Where does your mind’s eye land and why? 

NJ: I would like to go far away.

GS: Anywhere in particular or just anywhere far away?  

NJ: I would like to go to the United States.

GS: Here’s my last question.  It is a huge honour to interview you. If you could interview someone you admire, who would it be?

NJ: Je voue un culte à mon chanteur adoré, Daniel Darc.

I would dedicate a cult to my beloved singer Daniel Darc.   (Unfortunately, Daniel Darc has passed away, so there won’t be an interview!).

GS: Thank you so much for your time and your energy, Nicolas.

NJ: I will always be there if you need some support and please send some kisses, hugs to all your family and thank you for inviting me to this interview. 

GS: I want to say thank you not only for this interview but also for all the work that you do. You are unique in our world, you are very prominent in Europe as a nonspeaking typer activist, and you are always there for our community, worldwide.  

I hope to see you next year and if I don’t, I will see you as soon as we are able!

*Nicolas’ YouTube channel can be found here.  A quick search of his name on YouTube or Google will also reveal many guest appearances and presentations in webinars and events around the world!