ableism: What is it and how does it effect us?

I want to talk about what ableism is and it’s effect on us. Ableism is the attitude that a nondisabled person is inherently superior to a disabled person. Most people won’t come right out and say this, but the way they act betrays their attitude. For example, some people talk down to us as if we were children when we are adults capable of making our own decisions. Even if we are not fully adults yet, i.e. under 18, we still deserve a level of respect that we are sometimes not given.

Another way ableism manifests itself is assuming that we as disabled people cannot do simple things or things that would have nothing to do with our disability. For example a lot of people still think we are unable to use a computer or mobile phone effectively, when given the right tools and possibly some training both can be used effectively by many disability groups.

I think the only way we can defeat ableism is to educate the public. It is not always easy, sometimes it doesn’t work, and we have to pick our battles. Nonetheless I have seen in my own life that once people are educated they can become some of our closest friends and are fiercest advocates. Also don’t mistake asking questions for ableism. Some people are just genuinely curious about how we do things and aren’t afraid to ask which I think is a great thing. As I’ve said before, surround yourself with curious people who believe in you and want to help you succeed.

Ableism can effect different people differently depending on our personality, support system, etc. It is important no matter how you feel in the moment to step back and realize that there are people out there who get it and are willing to help you succeed. Find a good community, whether that be people with disabilities or nondisabled allies, and keep pushing forward. You never know what you are capable of and what God has in store for you. Always keep pushing forward and never give up.