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Ableism Learning Series

Embark on a journey of awareness and understanding as we explore the theme of ableism. Our curated resources aim to shed light on different facets of this crucial topic, fostering a deeper appreciation for diverse perspectives.

I'm Not Your Inspiration

Stella Young is a comedian and journalist who happens to go about her day in a wheelchair—a fact that doesn't, she'd like to make clear, automatically turn her into a noble inspiration to all humanity.

Person in a wheelchair facing a door with a 'CLOSED' sign.

Nondisabled Allies

Research has shown that appreciated nondisabled people who offered appropriate help, were trustworthy in their understanding of disability identity, made personal connections, advocated and acted against ableism, were willing to learn, and communicated effectively. Consistent with research about White allies to people of color, participants emphasized both political and social dimensions of being an ally.

Read Actors Against Ableism? Qualities of Nondisabled Allies from the Perspective of People with Physical Disabilities by Ostrove, J.M., Kornfeld, M., and Ibrahim, M.

Hidden Disabilities

Not all disabilities are visible. Be kind, respectful and never assume.

Not all disabilities are visible, like PTSD, brain injuries, asthma, chronic fatigue

Invisible Disabilities

Many students have disabilities that are not easily noticed, which can lead to misunderstandings. As stated by Beatrice Awoniyi, director and assistant dean for the Student Disability Resource Center at Florida State University, "You may look at a student and you say, you know, you look like every other student in the class, what do you mean you need note-taking? What do you mean you need extra time on the test? It might not be apparent to you as a faculty member that a student has a disability, but that disability may impact their participation in the class."

Read Invisible Disabilities and Postsecondary Education by Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology.

How to Be a Better Ally

It's all of our responsibility to be the best allies we can to the disabled community. In this video, NYC activist Daphne Frias' gives her five biggest tips to being the best ally you can be.