What is ableism?

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Ableism is the discrimination of and prejudice against people

with disabilities based on the belief that typical abilities are superior. Ableism can show up in individual's behavior as well as social structures and institutions. 

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What can ableism look like? 

 

Ableism can look like talking to a person with a disability like they are a child, talking about them instead of directly to them, or speaking for them. 

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Ableism can look like using the accessible bathroom stall when you are able to use the non-accessible stall without risk of injury. 

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Ableism can look like holding a meeting or event at an inaccessible venue, therefore excluding some participants. 

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Ableism can look like laws and societal norms that restrict the equality and freedom of people with disabilities. 

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Ableism can look like using phrases like this imply a disability makes a person less than and that disability is bad, negative or a problem to be fixed.

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source: accessliving.org 

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How can you combat ableism?

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Spreading kindness is a powerful way to combat ableism and promote inclusion. Use your words and actions to make sure everyone feels seen, heard and included. Here are some things you can do every day:

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• Choose to include. Center people with disabilities 

• Don't speak on behalf of someone with a disability unless they explicitly ask you to. 

• People have different preferences when it comes to person first language and identity first language [links to articles explaining??]. If you don't know what someone prefers, just ask!

• Be proactive about accessibility in your spaces. Don’t just make it an afterthought.

• Make an effort to be kind to everyone, regardless of gender, age, race, ability or disability. You never know who could become your best friend!

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