Ableism is a term you might have come across online, but what does it mean? Ableism refers to the discrimination and prejudice disabled people face. We live in a world that was built around being non-disabled, and ableism is the belief that people who are disabled are “less than”. It refers to the assumption that being non-disabled is “normal” and that having a disability makes you less valuable. 

A Little Bit of History

Ableism and the belief that people who aren’t disabled are “normal” stems from Nazi ideology. This ideology promoted racial superiority and mass genocide. This extremist ideology believed that disabled people were a liability and considered “unworthy of life”.

Although these beliefs may not be seen as mainstream, we still live in a world rooted in ableism. Disabled people are often excluded from society due to a lack of accessibility. Whether it be building design or access to events, accessibility is often added as an afterthought rather than a priority. We should pause and ask ourselves what changes we should try to push forward.

What Does Ableism Look Like?

Ableism can happen both systemically and as microaggressions.

This means that it can show up as:

• A building with no ramps or lifts
• Being denied entry at an event
• Not making information available in an accessible format such as British Sign Language (BSL) or Braille
• Making passive comments towards a disabled person, such as “But you don’t look disabled!”
• Saying or asking intrusive things 
• Making assumptions about people, etc.

What Can We Do About It?

We can try to be kinder and listen to people. It’s important to believe them when they describe being discriminated against. We can also pay attention to our surroundings and everyday language, ensuring we aren’t falling for an ableist bias.

Lastly, it is important to try and make positive changes. Whether you are an individual or a company, try financially supporting charities, companies or movements that support disabled people. You can also call for systemic changes by calling for more support and inclusivity for disabled people. Use your voice and let people hear you!

If you would like to learn more about inclusivity, how to can make your events accessible or your workplace, do contact us by calling 01752 289 776 or writing us at: contactus@paulb496.sg-host.com