---
tags:
- Note
timestamp: 23.04.2026 - 11:43
title: Unlearning Ableism - Note
---
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# CHAPTER 1

# Unlearning Ableism: The Diversity of Disability

There is a misconception that Disabled people are some kind of rare mystical unicorns that only come out during full moons, that we are few and far between, hidden away in the shadows. This could not be more wrong. Disabled people are your friends, your neighbours, your colleagues, your customers. We are you.

Close your eyes, and picture a Disabled person. What do you see?

Like most people, you're probably envisioning a visible physical difference, something you can see, when the reality is that Disability is so much more.

Whether permanently or temporarily, we will all experience Disability at some point in our lives. To contradict societal misconceptions, \(80\%\) of people acquire their Disability at some point in their lifetime as opposed to the \(20\%\) of people born Disabled (Wheeler, 2022). You may break a bone, acquire a long- term illness, experience mental health conditions (yes, mental health is also included within Disability), all coupled with being in an ageing population. This is not intended to scare- monger, but if you think Disability doesn't apply to you, it may well in the future. Or it will affect a loved one. Disability is intertwined with human experience, so why do we not allow for the consideration of Disabled people?

Disabled people make up nearly a quarter of the population in the UK, \(24\%\) according to the Family Resources Survey (Department for Work and Pensions, 2023). That's over 16 million people, a number that is rising every year. Globally, the number of Disabled people is estimated to be 1.3 billion (World Health Organization, n.d.). Disability prevalence varies across different regions, reflecting demographic, social, and policy- related factors. In the US, more than one in four adults \((28.7\%)\) live with a Disability, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023). Within the European Union, an estimated \(27\%\) of individuals aged 16 and over, equivalent to about 101 million people, identified as being Disabled in 2023 (Eurostat, 2024). Similarly, in Canada, \(27\%\) of the population aged 15 and older, representing 8 million people, reported having at least one Disability (Statistics Canada, 2024).

However, due to equality disparities globally, access to healthcare or diagnosis, the definition of Disability, and data collection, the number of Disabled people globally is often disputed. Disability advocates and organisations estimate this number to be much higher than 1.3 billion, believing it to be larger than the population of China, which is 1.409 billion people (National Bureau of Statistics of China, 2024).

Statistically, we are the largest minority group.

Despite this, Disabled people are still having to navigate a society of which the very design excludes and disables. The societal knowledge gap around Disability has always been a vast chasm, where people are too scared to investigate the unknown. It is no wonder that society holds such misguided views on what it actually means to be Disabled, or how indeed the discrimination Disabled people face can be broken down. Society is inherently ableist. We are not educated about the history of Disability, our platform is consistently taken away from us and non- Disabled People incorrectly act or speak on our behalf, we are not consulted, we are not represented. We are living in a world which intends to promote surviving but not thriving.

But what does it mean to be Disabled? How do you define the lived experiences of over 1 billion people globally? Well, it's not an easy job, but we are going to try.

Have you heard of the Disability models? These are frameworks that seek to define and educate others about Disability. These frameworks create mechanisms that shape people's views, understanding, and perceptions of what it means to be Disabled.

Some models can positively lay the foundations to create inclusive law, policy, access, resources, support, and treatment of Disabled people; however, others further ostracise and perpetuate harm for Disabled people.

The two main models of Disability are the social and medical models.

## The medical model of Disability

This model was christened in the early to mid- 20th century, at a time when medical professionals were key decision- makers in diagnosing, defining, and 'treating' Disability. It was also a period when advancements in technology and medical science were bringing to light new treatments and ways to manage conditions. This model of Disability dictates that Disability is a component of humanity, to be treated and eradicated, a problem to be solved. It also reduces the human experience to the condition or impairment, failing to acknowledge societal barriers and systemic ableism. Under this model, if a Disabled person was not treated equally or included it was due to their Disability.

A small nod of appreciation must be given to the medical model. It paved the way for medical advancements and treatments and allowed researchers to gather valuable insights. However (we did say a small nod), without centring or encompassing those with lived experiences, a portion of these insights have now been proven to have detrimental repercussions - for example, the use of asylums, inhumane treatments, and forced terminations. This medical view of Disability didn't just define Disability among the medical community, oh no. It reinforced societal attitudes towards Disability that have arguably been there since the dawn of humanity. Disabled people are to be silenced, hidden away, cured, or ostracised. It influenced society to view Disability as a problem, something that we need to fix.

As you can imagine, this model of Disability is exactly the view of Disability we are trying to move away from. And what we should be moving towards is the social model of Disability (by the way, it's not just us; the United Nations also agrees!).

## The social model of Disability

Surfacing during the late 20th century, this model stipulates that rather than viewing Disability as an entity to be cured, actually it is the intersection between our Disability and the societal barriers that disables a person (much better thinking, don't you agree?). The social model gained prominence thanks to the work of Disability rights activists and scholars. A huge contributor to leading this was Professor Mike Oliver, a Disabled academic. Mike coined the term 'social model of Disability' in 1983 (Oliver, 1983). Sadly, he passed away in 2019, but he left behind a legacy that challenges society to realise that it is disabling us. This model, and the work of Disability rights campaigners such as Judy Heumann, challenged the medical model view of Disability hoping to flip the narrative that had been written about us. Nothing about us without us.

The manual for removing barriers is centred around those with lived experience. Now we are writing our own narrative, as it should be. Ableism is a contributing factor that excludes and disables; where a non- Disabled person can navigate society freely, a Disabled person will encounter inaccessible buildings, inequitable healthcare and education - the list of barriers is endless. Disability is not the problem to fix; inaccessibility, ableism, and the underrepresentation rife within our society are the problems.

Of course, these two models are not the only models, but they are the most prominent within the Disability community. Other models are described below.

## The charity model

This model views Disability as something to pity, and again rather than addressing inequities and inequalities, the solutions to address Disability centre around benevolent acts of kindness. It is as though Disabled people are all victims that society should feel charitable towards - Disabled people can't do it alone; they need non- Disabled knights in shining armour to save the day and rescue them from their tragic life. The charity model of Disability is one of the most criticised models of Disability. It focuses on what Disabled people lack, and mitigates their rights, opportunities, and their involvement in society. This model is often a wolf dressed in sheep's clothing, meaning it is inherently ableist. Understanding it helps us to understand how far we have come, where we are, and the mistakes of the past that we should not be repeating.

## The biopsychosocial model

This model views Disability as an interaction between biological, psychological, and social factors. In other words, it takes parts of the medical model and social model while recognising mental health, emotions, genetics, internalised ableism, and other psychological factors associated with Disability. This model promotes a more holistic approach to Disability. While this model may seem on the surface the best of both worlds, it can also create the potential for blame. That blame is placed on an individual for not being 'mentally strong enough to manage their Disability' (even writing that felt ableist). It can also create additional ableist beliefs or stereotypes that Disability is just 'in a person's head'.

## The rights-based model

This model focuses on Disabled people having equal rights across society, the same rights as non- Disabled people. Disabled people should be treated with respect and dignity, and be free from discrimination. This model focuses on protections and removing societal barriers so that Disabled people can be included in all areas of society. While this is a fantastic approach to ensuring the protection and inclusion of Disabled people, there are some who argue that it is unrealistic due to the inequality of access and the disparities in provision of care across the globe. This model also reduces Disability to one piece of an identity, overlooking individuals with intersecting identities who experience compounded discrimination.

## But which model is right, and which is wrong?

Each model has its place, and without the progression through the models, we wouldn't have landed where we are today. Without the charity model, we wouldn't understand how far we have come and how far we have yet to go. Without the medical model, we wouldn't have the social model. Without either of these models, we wouldn't have the biopsychosocial model or rights model. People evolve. Attitudes evolve. Language evolves, and so do society's views of Disability. We don't know what the future brings and what new models lie in wait, ready to be shared with the world, but for now, it's important to know that each individual who has lived experience of Disability, or of being Disabled, will have their own view of what it means to them, how they want to self- identify, how they want to receive support, and how they feel about being a Disabled person. Therefore, it is up to the individual to decide, not a group, not a workplace, not another claiming to be 'an expert'. We told you that Disability is diverse, so if you are going to understand anything about Disability from this first chapter, understand its diversity, understand how to define Disability.

## Defining Disability

In the UK, for example, the term Disability is defined under the Equality Act 2010. According to legislation, a person is considered Disabled if they have a 'physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long- term (12 months or more) negative effect on their ability to carry out normal day- to- day activities'. It is important to note that the definition includes both visible and non- visible Disabilities, as well as conditions that may fluctuate in their impact over time. The purpose of this definition is to provide legal protection against discrimination, the provision of adjustments, and to ensure equal opportunities for individuals with Disabilities in areas such as employment, education, housing, and services.

The definition of Disability can vary depending on the country and context. In many countries, including the US, Disability is often defined by laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (US Department of Justice, n.d.). According to these laws, a Disability is an impairment that substantially limits a person's ability to perform major life activities, such as walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working. This definition includes people with 'physical Disabilities, sensory Disabilities (such as vision or hearing impairments), intellectual Disabilities, and mental health conditions'.

But the global consensus is that Disability refers to any physical, physiological, neurological, or mental condition which has a substantial impact on an individual's daily life.

It is also important to note that Disability is not solely determined by the presence of a health condition, but also by the interaction between the individual and society. This means that social and environmental barriers can contribute to the experience of Disability and impact the level of functioning and participation of Disabled individuals.

The notion of Disability has evolved over time to emphasise the importance of inclusion, accessibility, and equal rights for Disabled people; whether this is adhered to or not is another matter. When we define Disability, we are being asked to define diversity, but diversity is not one thing. Disability is not one thing.

## Disability has no one appearance

There are many ways to experience Disability, from physical Disabilities to mental Disability, to chronic conditions, sensory Disabilities, neurodivergence, and so on. Disability encompasses a broad spectrum of lived experience. Disabled people can be white, Black, Brown, masc presenting, fem presenting, gender non- conforming, tall, short, slim, curvaceous...you get the picture. Disability has no one appearance.

## There is no one experience

There is no one experienceNo two Disabled people experience Disability the same, and equally no two people with the same Disability experience it in the same way. Disability is uniquely personal to an individual. Their experience will be shaped by other pieces of their identity, environments, preferences, support, geography, and so on. While there are shared experiences between Disabled people and a deeper level of understanding and empathy towards another's experience, that person's experience of Disability is unique to them. Disability is shaped by many things.

## Some Disabilities are visible

Some Disabilities are visibleSome Disabilities are visible, meaning you will 'see' if a person is Disabled. This might be a person using a wheelchair, a walking aid, with a support animal, or the person may have a visible difference. A visible Disability does not mean a person will suddenly get the support or access they need. Disability being visible does not guarantee acceptance, support, or access. It also does not give you a right to stare or point.

## Some Disabilities are non-visible

You will not always know just by looking at a person if they are Disabled. In the UK, Post Parliament (Kelly & Mutebi, 2023) reports that 70- 80% of Disabilities are non- visible. In the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 10% of Disabled people have outwardly visible Disabilities (as cited in Eisenmenger, 2020).

So, you will not always know if a person is Disabled and even if the Disability is visible it does not mean you will understand it. It is important to note that even a non- visible Disability can be made visible. For example, a visually impaired person using a screen reader or larger monitor can make their Disability visible to others. This might deter an individual from sharing or using the tools or the support they need. Just because you can't 'see it', doesn't mean it isn't real, or any less validated. You can't see gravity, but that doesn't mean it isn't there!

## Disability can be permanent

Permanent Disability is long lasting or lifelong. Usually this means a person's Disability cannot be taken away with surgery, therapy, or medical intervention. The person's Disability will have a significant impact on their lives, and they may require specific support, adjustments, access needs, or alternative ways to engage. Permanent Disability does not mean a person is incapable or not deserving of opportunity or that they do not deserve the right to enjoy a fulfilling life.

## Or it can be temporary

Temporary Disability is not lifelong and is only experienced by a person for a set period of time. This could be the result of a broken bone, sickness, pregnancy- related conditions, recovery from surgery, and so on. Temporary Disability can impact a person's movements, participation, and ability to perform tasks. It can change how they do things for a set amount of time, until they have healed and recovered. We are all one accident or sickness away from experiencing temporary Disability.

## There is no right way to be Disabled and no wrong way to be

Whether a person is born with or acquires a Disability, it is important that we recognise there is no right or wrong way to be Disabled. There is no magical handbook that suddenly tells us how to advocate, what adjustments/accommodations we need, or how to articulate our experience. Instead, we learn through trial and error.

We learn from having to navigate a disabling ableist society. Yet, we as Disabled people carry a weight or shame that it is our fault, that we should have said XYZ when we were being discriminated against, that we should try harder, as though the problem was even us in the first place. There is no right or wrong way to be Disabled - scream it from the rooftops, shout it from the hills. We need to stop placing unrealistic and unfair expectations on Disabled people. And we, as Disabled people, need to learn to stop carrying the burden of responsibility for a disabling ableist society.

## Disability is one piece of our identity

A person's identity is made up of lots and lots of different things, but as a society we have a tendency to singularly label and categorise. We view Disabled people through a lens of everyone being the same, when the reality is that Disability is diverse, and it is shaped by all the other pieces of our identity. Our identity includes lots of things like race, class, sex, gender, age, sexuality, ethnicity, region, and nationality. Being Disabled is only one part of who we are; it is not our entirety. When you have met one Disabled person you have met one Disabled person - you will hear that a lot in this book. Disability is diverse, just as people are diverse.

## Disability is intersectional

Disability does not discriminate. It is not restricted to one ethnicity, one race, gender, sex. Disability can be experienced by anyone at any given time, and it overlaps with every piece of a person's identity. This shapes a person's experience of Disability, creating instances of privilege and compounded oppressions. For example, a white Disabled woman will not experience Disability the same way as a Black Disabled woman. While the two women will have a collective experience of sexism, the white woman will not be judged by the colour of her skin, offering her some privilege which the Black woman is not granted. This does not make the white Disabled woman any less oppressed; it simply means that while she can empathise with the experience of racism, she will not herself experience it nor truly understand how it feels. Likewise, with a person with sight and a person without sight, the person with sight has the privilege of being able to see, whereas the person without sight does not. Admitting privilege is not an admission of guilt but rather an admission of understanding. I understand that my experience is different to yours.

## Disability is human

As a society, we have the tendency to see Disability as this far away thing which does not directly affect or impact us, when in fact we are all just one accident or sickness away from experiencing Disability. As we age, we may acquire Disability or we may get sick, so rather than viewing Disability as a far- away thing we need to realise that Disability is an intrinsic piece of being human. It is encoded in our genes; it's in our DNA, passed down across the ages. Disability has always been here and will always be here because Disability is a part of the human experience.

We can't possibly have this discussion about Disability without talking about carers, an often- overlooked piece of the Disability conversation. Carers support, provide help, empower us, encourage us, and are there through the good, the bad, and the inaccessible - those unpaid and paid individuals without whom many of us wouldn't be where we are today.

> I was a carer for my daughter, Lucy, when she became poorly at 14 years old until her death at 29 years. When you have a Disabled child from birth, often the parent(s) are made aware of services available for support for both the child and the parents. However, when your child suddenly becomes unwell at 14 with an unrecognised disease/condition you are left floundering in the dark. I was working full time and was a single parent with an older daughter who needed me too. The whole system is so difficult to navigate. If I were asked for advice, I would say to seek out other families who have had success with negotiating with various different agencies. There is so much available provided you know how to access it. Lucy acted as an advocate for other Disabled young adults, for which she was awarded an MBE. She was passionate about ensuring that young adults and their families had adequate knowledge and knew how to put this into practice. Despite all her knowledge she often turned up at events (having made people aware that she used a wheelchair) and would be unable to get into the building or room. It was incredibly frustrating. It made us very aware that Disabled people are not always considered by society.
>
> \- Kate Watts, carer

Carers are all too often under- valued and under- appreciated in the work and support they provide. Discrimination against carers is both discrimination against the Disabled community and the caring community, and therefore understanding how we unlearn the ableism within our biases, attitudes, and behaviours towards carers is essential.

Let's provide some perspective of the scale of this conversation:

- The International Alliance of Carer Organisations estimated that there were over 63 million carers worldwide (International Alliance of Carer Organizations, 2021).
- In Europe, 20% of the population identifies as a carer (European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions, 2021).
- Over 82 billion hours are spent each year on informal care for people with dementia in their homes (Wimo, Prince, & Gauthier, 2018).
- An estimated one in seven people is an unpaid carer while also being in employment (Carers UK, 2023).

With an ageing and growing population, rising social care costs, changes in social dynamics, and an increase in the Disabled population, these numbers are just going to get higher and higher.

Carers play a significant role in the lives of Disabled people and contribute to the broader understanding of Disability, ableism, and access through various lived experiences. They also have first- hand experience of the barriers that Disabled people face each and every single day and they too have their own challenges:

- Carers often face significant emotional and physical stress due to their caregiving responsibilities, which can lead to burnout and chronic health issues (Wisner, 2025).
- The economic burden on carers is considerable, with many facing reduced income and increased expenses (Wisner, 2025).
- Around 40.4 million Americans provide unpaid care for individuals aged 65 and older, with 32.9% of them reporting mental or behavioral health issues (American Psychological Association, 2020).
- Over half \((55\%)\) of family caregivers have been providing care for at least three years (Shuman, 2025), which increases the risk of physical and emotional burnout.
- A significant proportion of family caregivers, especially those caring for terminally ill or elderly relatives, experience posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with \(35\%\) reporting depression and \(70\%\) experiencing anxiety (Braich, 2021).
- Twenty- five per cent of caregivers report significant difficulty accessing affordable and helpful support for their caregiving responsibilities (Family Caregiver Alliance, n.d.).

It's important to note that at times there can be tensions between Disabled people and carers. Now, we aren't talking about handbags at dawn here, but occasionally there can be differing opinions.

- Some Disabled advocates push for self- representation, believing carers should amplify Disabled voices, not speak for them. This perspective emphasises the importance of autonomy and ensuring that individuals with Disabilities have control over their own narratives. Carers, while often well intentioned, may inadvertently overshadow the voices of those they support, leading to tensions in advocacy efforts (Herr, 2016).
- Disabled advocates push for autonomy and self- independence, while carers, particularly family members, may restrict or discourage actions they themselves don't feel comfortable with. This dynamic can lead to conflicts, as carers' protective instincts might limit the personal growth and freedom of Disabled individuals. Balancing safety concerns with the individual's right to self- determination is a common challenge in these relationships (Maker, 2022).
- Disabled activists often feel that carers focus on a medical model lens, viewing Disability as something to be cured, rather than focusing on societal barriers. The medical model emphasises impairment and seeks to 'fix' the individual, whereas the social model highlights how societal structures and attitudes disable individuals. This fundamental difference in perspective can lead to misunderstandings and disagreements between Disabled individuals and their carers (Disability Nottinghamshire, n.d.).
- Some Disabled advocates believe that carers use outdated or ableist language, not listening to the individual or wider community. Language shapes perceptions, and the use of insensitive or inappropriate terms can perpetuate stigma. Advocates stress the importance of adopting language that reflects respect and aligns with the preferences of the Disabled community (Reynolds, 2018).

We are not here to referee these differences because, ultimately, the outcome should always be the autonomy of each Disabled person. While some Disabled people are able to express their wants and needs, others may not be able to or might struggle to do so, with their carer acting on their behalf. Perhaps this person does agree with the language being used, perhaps they understand how much this carer actually does for them and recognises that their intention isn't to offend but rather to support them in the best way they know how. After all, there's no course a person takes to become a carer; there are no qualifying conditions. People learn as they go, they adapt, they fight a broken system, and they do what they can. Now of course we recognise there are people employed to provide care, but for unpaid carers, a lot of the time they are thrust into the role.

There is space for those with lived experience and those who are carers to share their views and experiences; in their role as carers, they do experience ableism. They witness the inaccessibility, they hear the side comments, and they are the ones people seem to look at and talk to rather than addressing the Disabled person. They must be able to contribute to the conversation, and they must do so respectfully towards Disabled people. And equally, Disabled people must also respect carers.

Open dialogue is key.

## Disability is beautifully and infinitely diverse

Everyone has their own unique lived experience. Lived experience will differ from person to person and even among those who may have the same or similar conditions. Each Disabled person should be viewed for who they are, an individual, not a stereotyped collective.

Close your eyes again, and picture a Disabled person. What do you see now? Are you beginning to recognise the diversity of Disability? Are you ready to now learn what shaped that view in the first place?

# CHAPTER 2

# Unlearning Ableism: Defining Ableism

I never would have guessed you were Disabled.' But you look so normal.'If you're blind where is your guide dog?'You are so clever, how on earth can you be dyslexic?'I've seen you walking, you don't need a wheelchair, stop pretending.'You have a job, so you can't possibly have ADHD.'Oh wow, you have a partner, and they're okay with it?'It must be so hard to be Disabled.'You're so inspiring.'

Ugh!! If we had a coin for every time a Disabled person heard comments like this being used so casually and without thought... we would be extraordinarily rich indeed. Time and time again these comments are thrown into conversation, idly and without consequence.

This is society's way of reminding us that 'to be Disabled' is to be viewed and treated differently, and that it is justified for people to behave accordingly. This is an example of ableism. These hurtful phrases, although seemingly innocent to the user, can actually reinforce the charity model of Disability. 'Oh, you achieved something and that is amazing because you are Disabled.' This comment, which you might think is a compliment, actually reduces an individual to their Disability and makes them inspiring not because they achieved, but because they are Disabled. Welcome to unlearning ableism!

## So, what is ableism?

Ableism refers to the discrimination or prejudice against individuals with a Disability, or the belief that Disabled people are inferior to those without Disabilities. Because of this belief, Disabled people are marginalised, prevented from opportunities and participation, or denied basic rights and accommodations. Sounds straightforward, right?

Unfortunately, it is not that simple. It is hard to summarise ableism in a single sentence. How do you summarise in words that which has, and continues to have, a significant detrimental impact on the lives of Disabled people globally?

The Oxford Review (n.d.) defines ableism as, 'discrimination in favour of the able- bodied'.

The irony, of course, is that this definition is quite ableist. It creates the idea that every Disabled person does not have use of their body. It implies that to be Disabled is to not be able.

However, a more accurate definition of ableism would be the systemic oppression of Disabled people. Ableism restricts Disabled people's movements, autonomy, rights, and inclusion across society. Ableism shapes people's view of Disability, in turn leading them to act with bias, stereotype, and to exclude and discriminate.

As a society, we are innately ableist, automatically designing spaces, products, and services in a way that excludes Disabled people. Our workplaces, healthcare, and education systems are not inclusive or accessible by default.

Ableist microaggressions manifest as patronising or condescending actions, behaviours, and language. People's well- meaning intentions can often be deep rooted in ableism. Telling someone, 'I don't see you as Disabled', 'I never would have guessed you had a Disability', and other comments which downplay or erase a piece of a person's identity is ableist. It is the belief that Disability has one appearance, one universal experience. This utterly mitigates the fact that Disability is diverse; there is not one set 'appearance'. Disability is both visible and non- visible, sometimes both. It can be both permanent and temporary, sometimes both. There is no one experience; even if people have the same Disability, their experiences will be unique to them.

Microaggressions, either verbal or non- verbal, cause harm, offense, or discomfort to another person. In the context of Disability, this could be microaggressions such as asking invasive questions about a person's Disability - 'How do you have sex?', 'How do you go to the bathroom?' Such questions only serve personal curiosity and are in no way supportive or inviting to the individual. Microaggressions can also include how you act or behave around Disabled people, for example suddenly changing your tone as though you are speaking to a child on realising they are in fact Disabled, or ignoring the Disabled person speaking to you and instead speaking to their companion.

Macroaggressions, on the other hand, are a lot more obvious. They are much larger in scale and include things such as the designing of inaccessible buildings or environments, segregation of Disabled people in education, discrimination against Disabled people, or disparities and inequities within healthcare. We could go on here, but as you read this book you will learn just how ableist macroaggressions institutionalise ableism, making it part of our society. It is also important to note that aggressions, whether micro or macro, are aggressions. Even if you view or consider something to be a microaggression, it can and might feel like a macroaggression to the individual experiencing it.

When you opt to downplay or erase Disability, you are telling us that we do not conform to your idea of Disability, an idea that is incorrect anyway. When you treat us differently because we are Disabled, you are displaying microaggressions.

## Assumptions

In a 2020 survey, \(38\%\) of Disabled people reported that they were often assumed to be less capable of handling social or professional responsibilities than their non- Disabled peers (Office for National Statistics, 2021). People make ableist assumptions about Disabled people, their needs, abilities, worth, and capabilities. We assume because we do not know, and we're not taught about Disability. Assumptions prevent us from recognising the diversity of Disability and the contributions and value of Disabled people. If we assume every Disabled person is the same, we overlook intersectionality and how intersecting identities shape a person's experience of ableism. Don't assume, ask. Ask how you can support a Disabled person; don't think you know what they need or what they are going to be capable of. Assuming anything about a Disabled person without first speaking to them, knowing them, and asking them, is ableist. You cannot assume the needs of a Disabled person simply by looking at them.

## Attitudes

The National Center for Learning Disabilities and Understood, in an annual survey, found that 'just \(30\%\) said they "feel strongly" that they're able to successfully educate students with learning Disabilities' and 'just half of the surveyed teachers said they "feel strongly" that students with learning Disabilities can perform at grade level.' As such, researchers found that a significant share of educators held several common misconceptions about people with Disabilities. A third of respondents blamed students' learning or attention issues on laziness, a quarter believe such issues can be outgrown, and another quarter pin ADD and ADHD on bad parenting (Keierleber, 2019).

Ableist attitudes are a reduction of a Disabled person's identity, isolating out their Disability as their only factor, the only thing worth knowing about them. These attitudes create an environment for marginalisation. To be marginalised is to be overlooked, excluded, and treated as less. It is not having equal and equitable access to resources, opportunities, rights, and protections. Ableist attitudes towards Disabled people can present as pity, treating them as inspirational due to a piece of their identity, not for their actions or accomplishments, and it can take the form of stereotyping or making presumptions of someone's 'capabilities'. Ableist attitudes stem from a lack of education on Disability, and ableism that we cyclically emanate into society.

## Bias

A 2020 study by Harvard University's Project Implicit found that \(60\%\) of participants showed implicit bias against Disabled people (Ratliff & Tucker Smith, 2024).

Ableism is rooted in bias. 'Oh, Disabled people can't do this.' 'We don't have any Disabled team members.' 'They can't be autistic because they are verbal.' This bias changes the way we interact with and view Disabled people. Bias occurs because of negative attitudes and beliefs that a person holds. This bias can often result in treating Disabled people with pity or sympathy: 'Oh, poor Disabled person, life must be so hard for you.' It is believing that Disabled people are inferior or that we are less capable than our non- Disabled peers: 'Well, how would they be able to do it? They're Disabled.' Bias can also show up when people perceive Disability to be entirely physical. The vast majority of people have a distinct assumption that Disability is only something that can be instantly seen (visible Disabilities) and don't acknowledge non- visible Disabilities. People can also opt to use language which implies that Disability adjustments are 'special treatment'.

Bias can be implicit or explicit. Implicit bias is subtle or unintentional, such as assuming a d/Deaf person cannot hear anything at all, a blind person cannot see at all, or a wheelchair user cannot use their legs at all. We subconsciously have a biased view of what Disability should be, and create bias about how a person should look, behave, or even communicate. Explicit bias, on the other hand, is intentional. It is choosing not to hire a person because you know that they are Disabled. It is purposefully setting out to exclude and harm Disabled people. Explicit bias is easier to recognise, while implicit bias is typically harder to unlearn because we don't know that we are doing it.

Remember, bias is not always conscious. We are conditioned to perceive Disability to be one thing: a wheelchair user. This is as a result of the universally used symbol of Disability, found on parking, websites, bathroom doors, and even bumper stickers. But Disability is diverse. Not all Disabled individuals require mobility aids such as wheelchairs. World Health Organization (n.d.b) data suggests that around 80 million people globally, or \(1\%\) of the total population, rely on wheelchairs for mobility. When considering wheelchair users as a subset of the Disabled community, they represent roughly \(6 - 7\%\) of all Disabled individuals globally, which means that this symbol is not representing \(93 - 94\%\) of the Disabled community.

## Beliefs

According to Scope's 2014 survey, \(67\%\) of people reported feeling uncomfortable talking to Disabled people (Scope, 2014).

Ableist beliefs form our opinions and view of Disability. As a society, we have set an unrealistic standard of what we consider to be normal. People create a comparison between Disability and normal - 'They're not Disabled, they're normal' - implying that to be Disabled is some undesirable, ugly trait. Or because a Disabled person interacts or navigates things in a different way, we automatically believe them to be not as capable, not as worthy, not as socially acceptable. We set Disabled people up to fail by believing they are going to fail, they aren't going to be as good, as capable, or as hard working.

## Discrimination

Research by Scope shows that \(54\%\) of employers surveyed said they had concerns over a Disabled employee's ability to do the job, and this affects their decision to offer a Disabled person the job (Scope, n.d.b).

Discrimination, in all areas of identity, is defined as the unfair, unjust, and prejudiced treatment or exclusion of an individual, or groups based on characteristics such as race, gender, sexuality, religion, Disability, and other characteristics. In a legal context, discrimination is the unfair and unequal treatment of individuals or groups based on 'protected characteristics'. Disability discrimination is running rife through our societal cultures around the world and is being allowed to do so. In a survey conducted by the Disability Unit UK (2021), \(52\%\) of Disabled respondents reported having experienced mistreatment due to their Disability. Discrimination is found in workplaces, due to actions, behaviours, or when companies do not provide adjustments/ accommodations or fail to provide equal and equitable opportunity for development or promotion. Discrimination happens in education, healthcare, transportation, travel, and through social and attitudinal barriers. In other words, it is blooming everywhere, in every aspect of our lives.

In a 2023 survey by the Business Disability Forum, half of Disabled employees reported that their workplace was inaccessible in terms of physical spaces and accommodations (Business Disability Forum, 2023).

Society has been designed for the non- Disabled and neurotypical - it's as simple as that. Everything, from our infrastructure right through to the design of websites, is not accessible for a lot of Disabled people. According to a 2025 report by WebAIM, 94.8% of the top one million webpages had accessibility issues (WebAIM, 2025).

From the outset, entrenched in our societal structures, Disabled people are excluded. We are not provided with the same opportunities to participate, engage, or connect. When people think of accessibility, they typically think of physically accessing a building, accessible bathrooms, lifts, or ramps. They don't remember to also think about digital accessibility or the accessibility of events, travel, healthcare, and so on. Workplaces and communities play a pivotal role in contributing to ableism. The failure to provide accessibility, or the failure to consider accessibility, is ableism.

We need only to look at the design of society to realise that Disabled people are treated less favourably. They are not considered when it comes to designing a new office, launching a new product, or even when you yourself post a message on social media. We have all heard the horror stories: a wheelchair user not having access to the building, guide dogs refused entry to public spaces or Disabled people struggling to gain and retain employment, no consideration to the fact that not everyone has the privilege of sight, sound, mobility. Ableism is rampant, thriving, and ready to raise its head at any given time.

Not everyone interacts with the world in the same way, yet we continue to exclude, and fail to provide opportunities for Disabled people to belong. We currently lie in a state of reactivity not proactivity, but we have to be forward thinking. We cannot continue on this cycle of waiting for discrimination to happen; we have to step in, and step up to make changes.

## Lack of adjustments and accommodations

A report by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (2020) highlighted that one in four workers with Disabilities in the European Union reported experiencing difficulties in obtaining the accommodations needed to perform their job.

Not providing adjustments and accommodations is the failure to provide an equitable experience for Disabled people. While international Disability law determines what is reasonable, there are many instances where companies fail to offer or promote adjustments and accommodations. Many people are also not aware that adjustments and accommodations go beyond the workplace. If you are holding an event, creating a webpage, or creating marketing content, not providing accessible options or the means to request them excludes Disabled people. Society has drifted towards this notion of set- templating, cookie- cutter normality, and we all think and act the same way. No. Not everyone learns, thinks, communicates, or navigates the world in the same way, and failing to consider this creates barriers which exclude and discriminate.

## Language

Numerous studies, and declarations of lived experience by Disabled people, demonstrate the inherent ableist language on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram (Jerez, 2024).

We acknowledge that language is an ever- changing, ever- evolving concept; however, the language we continue to use when talking about Disability or the experience of Disabled people has remained so far behind the inclusive progression of our dictation. How many times have you used Disability slurs, said 'Wow, that's mental', 'I was so blind to it', 'They're just slow'? In education, we label Disabled children's needs as 'special' or across society people perceive the words Disabled and Disability to be negative. Rather than utter these words, they opt for fluffy sugar- coated language: 'differently abled' or 'different abilities' or 'diverse abilities'. This is language used to make others feel comfortable, not the Disabled person.

Ableist language evokes strong reactions and for good reason. It reduces us and our experiences to an entirely negative space, with the undertone of disrespect, burdening, negative projections, and hurtful intent whether conscious or not. This is not, as we hear all the time, 'wokeism gone too far' or an 'infringement on freedom of speech'. Unlearning our language that we have grown up with and is ingrained within us is no simple feat; it takes time, we make mistakes, and we have to undo everything we know to create new habits. But this isn't an excuse for failing to do it all. We must educate and be educated by others with lived experience.

## Inspiration porn

The term 'inspiration porn' was coined by Australian Disability activist and comedian Stella Young. Stella used the term to describe the objectification of Disabled people as tools to inspire non- Disabled people (Young, 2014). 'You are so inspiring', 'You are so brave', and 'You are so inspiring for pushing through this.' This is inspiration porn. Our Disability is placed above our identity, our achievements, and our skills. You could be a lawyer, and when you tell some people that you have a Disability, they will be proud of you for simply saying you have a Disability, not because of your achievements. That's not inspiring; that's empowerment for the individual disclosing. It's inspiring for other Disabled individuals to see such empowerment. But for the person without a Disability, what have you learned? The person is Disabled. Do we need a marching band to mark this inspirational moment? You set your expectations so low that when we do something absurd like tie our shoelaces or hold down a job, you pat yourself on the back for recognising how hard it must be for that poor Disabled person. The only person who is benefitting from this exchange is you. You may think you have the best intentions, but without really knowing someone, their achievements, their values, and their beliefs, can you truly call them inspirational?

Picture this. If we told you a father saved his son and died in the process, you would think, 'What an inspiration.' But given context, that man was Darth Vader. He murdered, butchered, and wiped out the Jedi Order. But without that context, you didn't know that. If you want to feel better about yourself, rather than getting off comparing yourself to Disabled people, start unlearning ableism - it's much better for you.

## Stereotypes

Scope, a UK- based Disability equality charity, found that over \(72\%\) of Disabled people had experienced negative stereotypes related to their Disabilities in the previous five years (Scope, 2022). We generalise about Disability, creating false perceptions and ideals of what it means to be Disabled. 'Well, you can't be a wheelchair user because I saw you walking yesterday.' We stereotype because we aren't aware, we don't understand the complexity of Disability, we only know what we have seen or been taught, and we know that's not readily available or adequate. Phrases like, 'Oh, they all are suffering' and 'All Disabled people need help' generalise and overlook the experience of individuals.

Stereotyping is patronising and negative and creates a false narrative of what it means to be a Disabled person. When you allow your bias, either consciously or unconsciously, to inform your view of Disability, you have just stereotyped. Stereotyping is incredibly harmful; it perpetuates negative beliefs and assumptions and reinforces false perceptions of Disability. It is believing that blind means total vision loss, that d/Deaf means you cannot hear anything, or that to be Disabled means you are less 'capable'. These stereotypes create a society that holds the view that to be Disabled is to be one thing. Meeting one Disabled person is meeting one Disabled person. Just like our unique fingerprints or neurological profiles, no two Disabled people are the same. Making false judgements or allowing your own bias to inform your view of Disability and the way you treat Disabled people is harmful.

## Are you aware of ableism?

Ableism is systemic and unlearning it requires an individual to be increasingly aware of their own actions and behaviours. Ableism has created a power imbalance for Disabled people. It has restricted our ability to influence, make change, and advocate for ourselves. This imbalance of power is a driving factor of sustaining the marginalisation of Disabled people.

It is worth noting that even Disabled people themselves are not always educated on ableism, or, because of the diversity of Disability, have only experienced a small portion of the endless possibilities ableism has to offer. Disabled people are also not taught ways to manage ableism, how to challenge behaviours, and how to overcome discrimination, so this only further fosters our own internalised ableism, which can cause long- lasting psychological trauma.

Internalised ableism is the cost Disabled people pay when navigating a society not designed for them - a cost unwillingly and unknowingly paid. Internalised ableism is the direct impact ableism has on a Disabled person. It shapes our view of Disability, affects our self- worth, advocacy, and our mental health. We will further explore internalised ableism later in this book.

Ableism is a major factor when it comes to a Disabled person feeling a sense of belonging, feeling accepted, and even feeling supported. How can we embrace our authentic Disabled self when society seeks to treat us as less or, in some cases, as inspirational? Society is working against us, and we internalise these thoughts to work against ourselves. Can you imagine how exhausting that is? We navigate this society and when we speak out against ableism we are often viewed as over sensitive or angry. We are labelled as snowflakes, woke, or challenging. But if you strip it down, all we are asking for is to be included, to not be treated as an exemption or afterthought.

Now you may be thinking to yourself, well of course I agree that Disabled people shouldn't be punished, ostracised, or treated unfairly, but these decisions are not made by me individually; they are made by governments, leaders, policies. And yes, you would be right, they are, but as individuals we also play a fundamental role in unlearning ableism. You might have:

- used outdated offensive language
- made a biased judgement about a Disabled person/person with Disability
- told someone they don't look Disabled or treated them differently, without ever being invited to do so
- created an inaccessible product or service
- shared content online that was not accessible
- operated with exclusionary social practices
- displayed biased attitudes
- stereotyped somebody
- denied someone adjustments and accommodations.

Ableism constructs barriers that hinder our full participation in various aspects of life and act as a driving factor to our social exclusion. The list of ways in which as individuals we contribute to ableism is endless, and even the best intentions might have ableist undertones. The good news is you're not alone. We have all done it at some time or another, we have all witnessed other people doing it, and we all have gaps in our understanding about how to address or even stop it. To unlearn it, we must first understand its influence and grasp on society.

## The Ableism Cycle

Ableism is systemic. It is ingrained in the structure and design of our society, woven into its very fabric, and it thrives within our communities. To understand its influence and impact on society we use the Ableism Cycle, a resource and tool we created to educate others about ableism.

### Education

- Young Disabled people navigate an inaccessible ableist education system, designed for the neuro-majority and the non-Disabled.
- It is an education system that historically has segregated and treated Disabled people as 'special'.
- Non-Disabled young people witness this segregation and exclusion, learning that this treatment of Disabled people is acceptable and normal. They witness the segregation of Disabled people from an early age in turn grow into adults who design and create an environment, products, and services that are inaccessible and exclude Disabled people.
- There is inadequate training on Disability within education, limiting the support a child receives. There is often a lack of accessible resources and support, resulting in parents and caregivers having to fight for their child's right to education.
- This exclusion continues across education, from preschool to university, with barriers presenting themselves to Disabled people and preventing them from achieving or obtaining an adequate education.

### Socialisation

- A lack of education and understanding of Disability causes people to learn from sources closer to home, such as friends, family, and media.
- As a society, we are influenced by what we view and deem as 'normal'. We learn what is perceived to be normal, desirable, or attractive qualities and traits. This often leads people to believe that difference is not normal and does not bring value.
- We learn from others how to treat and act around Disabled people. Adults are seen to treat Disabled people with pity or through a charity lens - 'That poor wee child' - and young people inherit and adapt these behaviours, informing their beliefs and the way they themselves treat or view Disabled people.
- A lack of representation and false representations of Disability in media, in leadership, and across society also leaves people to formalise their own thoughts and views. Disabled people are made out to be victims, or Disability as an undesirable quality. Disabled people are portrayed in movies with lives that are tragic and unfulfilling and there is a complete failure to include Disabled people in lead charter roles or as the hero. It's easier to label the person with facial scarring or with missing limbs as the villain, portraying Disability as undesirable.
- People hear words and phrases used in everyday conversation and they cling to them and repeat them in their own vocabulary - words which are offensive, outdated, and ableist in nature. Words like 'crazy', 'lame', and 'retarded' carry hurt and pain for many, but are used so casually in conversation, in music, on TV, and as part of our everyday conversations.
- A lack of understanding and representation of Disability has led people to believe stereotypes or make assumptions about Disabled people, in turn leading them to act unintentionally ableist when they do meet a Disabled person.

### Normalisation

- Society sets the standard to design for the non-Disabled, that to be a non-Disabled person is more capable, more hardworking, adds more value. The narrative is that to be Disabled is problematic, causing us to exclude because why would we design for Disabled people? They are not our ideal customers (insert eye roll here).
- Cultural standards normalise the idea that Disability weakens a person, that to be independent and capable is the standard everyone should achieve.
- The ableism in our language is considered generational, where the harm of certain words and phrases is downplayed and those questioning the language are labelled as woke, outspoken, or sensitive.
- Socialised ableist values and beliefs become ingrained in our systems, policies, laws, healthcare, education, and workplaces, continuing to further exclude Disabled people across society. People design and create in the way they have been taught, continuing an inaccessible cycle which ends with Disabled people excluded and discriminated against.

### Discrimination

When society is designed to not include you it's inevitable that you as a Disabled person will experience discrimination. As mentioned earlier this can be direct discrimination or indirect. The cycle of ableism is designed to oppress and discriminate Disabled people, keeping us from achieving, from belonging, and from being accepted.

This discrimination leads to lack of opportunities, 'We don't hire Disabled people', biased hiring decisions, 'Disabled people are not as hard working as non- Disabled people', and other ableist mishaps that both directly and indirectly discriminate against Disabled people.

Discrimination is not always experienced in a professional setting either, as many Disabled people have been denied friendships, relationships, and autonomy of their bodies simply because they are Disabled. There is a belief that to be Disabled means you are not capable of understanding relationships, your body, your choices.

Historically, discrimination has ensured that Disabled people are not given the same equitable opportunities as non- Disabled peers, ensuring our exclusion across society.

### Exclusion

Exclusion can take many forms: physical, digital, social, economic, institutional, and so on. Exclusion denies Disabled people access, opportunity, and participation across society, whether that is being able to bank, shop, connect, or even work.

- This exclusion can drive Disabled people to mask or hide their Disability when applying for jobs, dating, and so on. We do this because we believe it safer to hide our Disability than risk a repeat of the past, rather than experience further exclusion - already planting the seeds of internalised ableism.
- Exclusion can impact a person's mental health, leaving them feeling isolated, lonely, or desperate. In turn, this can cause a person to numb or hide the pain with drugs or alcohol and can lead to mental health challenges.
- Exclusion pushes Disabled people to the outskirts of society, further marginalising and ostracising them. It ensures that Disabled people can never truly participate and instead normalises ableism and sets the scene for internalised ableism.

### Internalised ableism

- As mentioned earlier, internalised ableism is the cost Disabled people pay when navigating a disabling ableist society. In terms of the cycle of ableism, internalised ableism plays a fundamental role in continuing to oppress Disabled people.
- Internalised ableism leads Disabled people to accept and, in some ways, support the ableism ingrained in our society.
- What better oppresses a group or community than to have them question their own worth and value? That is what internalised ableism does. It costs a Disabled person their acceptance and shapes their experiences and, just like the example given earlier, we accept because we do not know any different, and because society reinforces the belief that to be Disabled is not attractive but is a problem to be solved.

### Reinforcement

Across society, ableism is reinforced and strengthened by other forms of oppression. Oppressions such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and classism support and uplift each other, ensuring that individuals remain powerless and marginalised.

Despite the incredible work of Disability advocates across the world, we still are moving at a snail's pace towards creating a society that is inclusive and accessible for Disabled people. Accessibility is claimed as a cost; Disabled people are seen as a burden and unlikely to be a service user or customer. The idea that Disabled people can't make decisions, apply themselves, or engage or succeed is reinforced.

Reinforcement solidifies the socialisation of ableism. It validates the normalisation of ableism, and it cements the discrimination and exclusion of Disabled people by justifying inequitable treatment. It reinforces that being Disabled is a problem in society.

Ableism is ingrained in every piece of our society. We have been saying this, but we hope by now you can understand just how deep this problem is. Reinforcement ensures that ableism remains a systemic oppression, supported and propped up by other systems of oppression.

### Systemic oppression

Ableism is behind every workplace door, every poor portrayed misrepresentation of Disability in media, behind that well intended act of charity, and the use of derogatory language meant to offend and upset a Disabled person. Every piece of our society is rooted in ableism. Think of it like a big weed that has rooted itself across the fabric of our society.

- Systemic oppression means that ableism remains large scale, affecting every single aspect of a Disabled person's life, whether it's at school, college, work, or visiting the dentist. Ableism is there, lying in wait.
- Our culture's ableism is an inherently harmful concept that perpetuates systemic oppression. This belief is devaluing the inherent worth and dignity of Disabled people and denying us our basic human rights, equitable opportunities, and the right to equal participation. Accessibility and inclusion are a right not a privilege, a legally binding principle that appears to have been forgotten.
- When society chooses to not include, design, or consider Disabled people, it contributes to this cycle by ensuring Disabled people remain oppressed and excluded. There is no recognition that one day these very people might be the ones on the other side of the oppression, the ones needing the accommodations.

The Ableism Cycle is cyclical, with each step feeding into the next, each series of events happening repeatedly, like being trapped on a giant hamster wheel, only this hamster wheel is not alone, oh no. It is sitting in the path of other forms of oppression, other systems that are marginalising groups and communities.

Now you might be wondering, how can ableism cause so many problems for Disabled people and still go unaddressed? You have just asked yourself the same question millions of Disabled people have asked themselves. Why does this cycle continue? How is it allowed to continue?

As a singer once sang, 'You can run, you can hide, but you can't escape...ableism.' Okay, ableism was not the follow- on word, but the point is this: ableism is everywhere, and you cannot continue to bury your head in the sand. To not stand up to ableism is to contribute to the exclusion and discrimination of Disabled people. Unlearning ableism means looking at yourself and recognising your contributions; it means understanding that Disability and ableism can impact a Disabled person. A fabulous way to do this is to start using Spoon Theory.

## Spoon Theory

Trying to discuss how Disability and ableism can impact a person can be difficult. How do you explain your everyday to a person who does not yet understand Disability? Thankfully, Christine Miserandino (2003) has described her individual experiences of exhaustion while navigating society with a chronic autoimmune disease. She uses a concept known as Spoon Theory, which has now been widely adopted as a way to talk about the experience of Disability.

So, what is Spoon Theory?

1. Imagine everyone starts each new day with 20 spoons. Each spoon represents the energy you have for the day.

2. The tasks we complete throughout the day cost an individual a certain number of spoons. For example, brushing your teeth costs a spoon, going to work costs a spoon, eating breakfast costs a spoon – see where we are going with this? Everything costs a spoon. Every task we complete requires energy.

3. Non- Disabled people might make it through the day with just the right number of spoons to complete everything they needed to do. But for Disabled people, activities and tasks that would cost a non- Disabled person one spoon could cost twice as much. Think of a journey to work for a non- Disabled person using a train. They can arrive at the station, get their ticket, and board the train. But a wheelchair user must check ahead of time if the train station is accessible, if there is someone to help get them on and off the train. This journey is costing the Disabled person more spoons than the non- Disabled person.

4. This additional spoon usage is not only afforded to travel, but also across other aspects of the day. A visit to a shopping centre might cost a non- Disabled person two spoons, but for an autistic person it might cost four spoons due to the additional sensory and communication barriers. Everyday tasks and actions that would cost a non- Disabled person a few spoons can often mean double the cost for a Disabled person. And while certain tasks will cost more spoons for a Disabled individual, it does not mean every single Disabled person will use the same amount of spoons for said task. Remember, Disability is diverse; so are our needs.

5. Disabled people tend to run out of spoons before the day is out, either from personal challenges or because of ableism. This could mean we run out of spoons and have to go into the next day with a deficit of spoons. Running out of spoons is a fast way to experience burnout.

Ableism costs Disabled people spoons that non- Disabled people would never have considered or imagined. It's important to recognise that a Disabled person's day to day can look very different from a non- Disabled person's, since the vast majority of products and services are designed for the non- Disabled, without accessibility in mind. This in turn creates barriers that exclude Disabled people. Across the day, Disabled people have to navigate these barriers, costing yet more spoons.

When we also consider the intersecting identities of Disabled people, these spoons may disappear even faster. Navigating a society not designed for you is exhausting, mentally and physically, so wasting spoons on the ableism of others is not what we want to be doing! But sadly, the reality is that this is the cause of burnout and internalised ableism. Unlearning ableism can help remove some of this additional spoon usage.

## Ableism intersects with every piece of a person's identity

Ableism intersects with other forms of discrimination, such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and classism, resulting in even more profound marginalisation for individuals with intersecting identities. Disabled people from marginalised communities often face compounded discrimination, further exacerbating the challenges they already confront. We wake up to ableism. We navigate ableism throughout the day and go to bed exhausted from it. Now add racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia to that person's day, when they are already navigating a society that historically has overlooked and created power imbalances. We will explore this much more in our intersectionality chapter and in other areas of this book.

> Whenever we talk about ableism, it's important to talk about it in the context of other intersecting forms of discrimination. When we think about how we challenge ableist systems or behaviour, we also need to think about the other factors that lead to the oppression of an individual. We need to address the presence of 'intersectional ableism'. We all have multiple identities, whether that's around race, gender, belief, and so on. Two of my identities are that I am both a person of colour and a Disabled person. I've seen how ableism compounded with racism can exacerbate exclusion, creating further barriers to healthcare, education, employment, and social participation.
>
> It's my view that all systems of oppression are deeply intertwined, shaping policies and practices that disproportionately harm Disabled people. Here are three examples of what I mean by 'intersectional ableism'.
>
> We know that Disabled people of colour face higher unemployment rates due to workplace discrimination and systemic barriers to education and career advancement. Recent research from the National Disability Institute in America (2019b) shows the intersection of race and Disability as being one of the key drivers of poverty.
>
> Throughout history, Disabled women have faced forced sterilisation and the denial of reproductive autonomy - policies rooted in both misogyny and eugenics. Even today, only nine EU countries criminalise forced sterilisation as a distinct offence, while 13 allow it to be performed on individuals with Disabilities - and in three of those countries that includes minors (Amoakuh, 2024).
>
> Access to inclusive healthcare is another critical issue. LGBTQIA+ [lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, and others] individuals already face discrimination in medical settings, and this is amplified for those who are Disabled. Research produced by the European Disability Forum (Uldry, M. & EDF Women's Committee, 2022) shows that medical professionals may invalidate a Disabled person's queer identity or make inappropriate assumptions about their ability to engage in relationships. So when we think about ableism, we need to think about how it often sits at the intersection of other forms of injustice - and if we cannot just challenge one form of injustice, we need to challenge them all.
>
> \- James Lee, Disability advocate

## You have taken your first steps to unlearning ableism

We get it, not everyone likes being called out. But if we don't start challenging and unlearning ableism, we won't ever break its cycle. Addressing ableism requires a collective effort to challenge negative attitudes, dismantle systemic barriers, and foster inclusive and accessible environments. It involves educating ourselves and others about Disability rights, advocating for policy changes, promoting inclusive practices, and actively listening to and centring the voices and experiences of Disabled people. By taking accountability of our own learning, and working towards creating an accessible inclusive society, we can dismantle ableist barriers and create an environment that embraces and values the diverse abilities and contributions of all individuals.

This book is your guide to unlearning ableism, helping you understand the complexity of ableism, how it manifests, and just how it contributes to the exclusion of Disabled people.

You can't run from ableism, nor can you excuse yourself from it. It's time to pull your head out of the sand.

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