markmandeno

Tag: inclusion

  • It’s Time to Talk About the Word “Disability”

    I was 39 when I sustained a C5 spinal cord injury. In a moment, life changed, and with it came the wheelchair, the barriers, and—what I didn’t expect—the mirror it held up to my own assumptions.

    Ten years on, I can say this with clarity: One of the the most confronting parts of becoming ‘disabled’ was the moment I realised I had spent my life unconsciously ‘othereing’ people who looked like the person I am today.

    That realisation hit hard. It forced me to admit that I had internalised society’s ableism long before I ever got injured. And now, living in a body marked by that difference, I could finally see just how deep that bias runs.

    We live in a world that consistently and quietly labels anything that diverges from the norm as “less than.” That idea is embedded in our language, our systems, our media—and even in our well-meaning efforts at inclusion. It’s in the word disability itself.

    Let’s stop pretending that word is neutral. It isn’t.

    Break it down: dis-ability. The prefix “dis” implies absence, failure, something broken or wrong. To be “disabled” is, linguistically and symbolically, to be not able. And yet, it’s the term we continue to use—academics, researchers, policy-makers, even advocates.

    We are identified by a word that fundamentally denies our capacity. And we rarely question it.

    We cannot challenge unconscious bias if we keep reinforcing it with the very language we use to define people. We cannot build equity on a foundation that subtly devalues the people we claim to uplift. The word disability is not just a descriptor—it is a barrier. A quiet wall of assumption, pity, fear, and exclusion.

    It’s time we talk about that.

    Because until we name the role that language plays in shaping attitudes and policies, we will keep spinning our wheels in the mud of good intentions.

    This isn’t about political correctness. It’s about power. It’s about who gets to define whom—and how.

    I don’t have the perfect word to replace disability yet. But I know this: if we’re serious about change, we need to be serious about language. Words shape perception. Perception shapes action. And action is what turns inclusion from a nice idea into a lived reality.

    Let’s be brave enough to question even the words we take for granted.

    Let’s start with disability.

  • Aversive Ableism: Exploring Subtle Biases Towards Individuals with Disabilities

    The concept of aversive ableism brings to light the nuanced ways in which bias and discrimination can affect individuals with disabilities. Aversive ableism describes individuals who may not overtly see themselves as prejudiced but demonstrate implicit biases and discomfort towards people with disabilities. This notion challenges us to acknowledge that even those with good intentions can unknowingly hold unconscious prejudices, emphasising the importance of self-reflection and awareness of our attitudes and behaviours.

    Subtle Manifestation of Bias Aversive ableism operates in subtle ways that often go unnoticed by individuals who are unaware of their implicit biases towards people with disabilities. These biases subtly influence daily interactions, attitudes, and assumptions, contributing to the marginalisation and exclusion of individuals with disabilities.

    Example: A hiring manager may unconsciously prefer a non-disabled candidate over a qualified candidate with a disability, assuming the latter may require more accommodations or support.

    Well-Meaning Individuals It is essential to recognise that individuals who consider themselves well-meaning and non-prejudiced may still harbour unconscious prejudices towards individuals with disabilities. The contrast between explicit beliefs and implicit biases underscores the complexity of aversive ableism, underscoring the need for self-awareness and reflection.

    Example: A teacher who genuinely cares about all their students may unknowingly provide fewer opportunities for participation to a student with a disability due to subconscious biases about their capabilities.

    Opportunity for Self-Reflection Acknowledging the presence of aversive ableism offers individuals a chance for introspection. This process involves examining one’s beliefs, assumptions, and actions to identify and challenge any underlying biases towards individuals with disabilities.

    Example: A healthcare provider reflecting on their interactions with patients with disabilities may realise they unintentionally speak louder or slower, assuming the individual has a cognitive impairment.

    Promoting Awareness Increasing awareness about aversive ableism and the prevalence of unconscious biases towards individuals with disabilities can help individuals become more mindful of their attitudes and behaviours. This heightened awareness fosters greater sensitivity, empathy, and understanding towards the experiences of people with disabilities, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment.

    Example: A community organising an event ensures accessibility for all attendees, including those with disabilities, by providing sign language interpreters, wheelchair ramps, and accessible facilities.

    Cultivating Empathy and Respect Through self-reflection and awareness of one’s biases, individuals can cultivate empathy and respect towards individuals with disabilities. By acknowledging and addressing aversive ableism, individuals contribute to building a more inclusive society where all individuals are valued and respected for their unique abilities and contributions.

    In conclusion, recognising aversive ableism involves understanding the subtle biases and discrimination faced by individuals with disabilities, promoting self-reflection, and raising awareness about unconscious prejudices. By fostering self-awareness and empathy, individuals can work towards challenging aversive ableism and creating a more inclusive and equitable society for individuals with disabilities. Let us strive to create a world where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of their abilities.

  • The Word “Disability” by Definition Is Not Inclusive

    In our journey towards a more inclusive society, we must examine our language and the unconscious biases it may perpetuate. One term that warrants closer scrutiny is “disability.” While seemingly innocuous, this word carries a heavy burden of negative connotations, which can manifest in attitudes, values, assumptions, and behaviours, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and marginalising individuals with disabilities.

    At its core, the term “disability” evokes notions of deficiency and limitation, deeply ingrained in societal attitudes towards individuals who deviate from the perceived norm. These attitudes, often unconscious and implicit, stem from a long history of ableism—the systemic discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Ableism manifests in various forms, from overt acts of discrimination to subtle microaggressions embedded in everyday interactions.

    One way in which ableism manifests is through the assumption of incompetence. Individuals labelled as “disabled” are frequently underestimated and overlooked, their abilities discounted based on preconceived notions of what they can or cannot achieve. This assumption of incompetence leads to missed opportunities for growth, development, and meaningful contribution, perpetuating a cycle of marginalisation and disempowerment.

    Furthermore, the term “disability” reinforces the narrative of dependency and burden, portraying individuals with disabilities as objects of pity or charity rather than active participants in society. This portrayal not only diminishes their agency and autonomy but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes that undermine their inherent worth and dignity as human beings.

    In addition to attitudes, language shapes our values and beliefs about disability. The term “disability” implies a binary division between those who are able-bodied and those who are not, creating a false dichotomy that fails to capture the complex and diverse experiences of individuals with disabilities. This binary thinking reinforces the notion of disability as an inherent flaw rather than a natural variation in human diversity, further marginalising those who fall outside the narrow confines of societal norms.

    Moreover, the term “disability” can influence behaviour, leading to the perpetuation of exclusionary practices and policies that systematically disadvantage individuals with disabilities. From inaccessible infrastructure to discriminatory hiring practices, these barriers reinforce the cycle of exclusion and perpetuate the social and economic disparities faced by individuals with disabilities.

    Despite the insights offered by the social model of disability, which emphasises the role of societal barriers in creating disability, the pervasive influence of ableism means that the term “disability” continues to be used in ways that perpetuate negative stereotypes and reinforce exclusionary attitudes and behaviours.

    In conclusion, the term “disability” carries with it a host of negative associations that perpetuate ableism and undermine the inclusion and dignity of individuals with disabilities. From unconscious biases to systemic barriers, these associations manifest in attitudes, values, assumptions, and behaviours that marginalise and disempower those who deviate from the perceived norm. As advocates for inclusivity and diversity, we must challenge these implicit associations and strive for a language that celebrates all individuals’ inherent worth and dignity, regardless of their abilities. Let us work towards a society where everyone is valued, respected, and included, regardless of their differences.

  • Rethinking Ableism: The Impact of Language on Shaping Perceptions of Disability

    In our everyday language, certain words carry immense power, not just in their literal meanings but in the deeply ingrained associations and perceptions they evoke. One such word, deeply entrenched in societal discourse yet often overlooked in its implications, is “disability.” Despite efforts to promote inclusivity and understanding, the term “disability” remains predominantly associated with an individual’s perceived shortcomings or deficiencies, perpetuating ableism in our society.

    The prevailing notion of disability is deeply rooted in what is known as the medical model or the individual model. This model views disability as a personal attribute, locating the cause of barriers and inequality within the individual. In essence, it defines disability based on an individual’s impairments or differences from the perceived norm, framing them as inherently deficient or less effective.

    However, the social model of disability offers a powerful alternative perspective. In contrast to the medical model, the social model shifts the focus away from the individual and towards society. It acknowledges that while impairments may exist, it is societal attitudes, values, and physical environments that create disabling barriers for individuals. The social model thus recognizes disability as a product of social, environmental, and attitudinal factors rather than an inherent flaw in the individual.

    Despite the clarity and inclusivity offered by the social model, the pervasive association of disability with the individual persists in public discourse. When prompted to think about disability, most people instinctively envision a person rather than considering the broader societal factors at play. This tendency highlights the inherent negativity embedded within the term “disability” itself.

    The term “disability” inherently carries a connotation of deficiency or incapacity, as evident in its linguistic structure. By prefixing “dis-” to “ability,” it emphasizes what an individual lacks or cannot do rather than focusing on their capabilities. This linguistic bias reinforces societal perceptions of disability as a personal deficit rather than a product of systemic barriers.

    To challenge ableism and promote a more inclusive understanding of disability, it is essential to rethink our language usage. One crucial step is to differentiate between impairment and disability explicitly. While impairment refers to the specific condition or difference experienced by an individual, disability encompasses the barriers and challenges they face in societal participation.

    Therefore, it is more accurate and respectful to refer to individuals as having impairments rather than being disabled. This distinction emphasizes that disability is not an inherent trait but rather a result of external factors that hinder full participation in society. By adopting this language, we can shift the narrative surrounding disability away from individual deficiency and towards societal responsibility.

    In conclusion, language plays a significant role in shaping perceptions and attitudes towards disability. The continued use of the term “disability” in its traditional sense perpetuates ableism by reinforcing negative associations with the individual. By embracing the social model of disability and reevaluating our language usage, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

  • Including People with Impairments in Outdoor Recreation- 7 steps

    1. Information and Communication:

    Effective communication is essential to ensure that people with impairments and disabilities feel welcome and informed about the outdoor recreation opportunities your organisation offers. Here’s how to enhance information and communication:

    • Website and Materials Accessibility: Ensure your website and informational materials are designed with accessibility in mind. Use alt text for images, provide captions for videos, and choose easy-to-read fonts and colour contrasts.
    • Clear Accessibility Information: Provide detailed accessibility information for each activity, including terrain, difficulty level, and any potential barriers. Clearly state if specific activities are suitable for people with different types of impairments.
    • Diverse Communication Channels: Offer a variety of communication channels, including phone, email, and social media, so individuals can choose the method that suits them best.

    2. Accessible Facilities:

    Creating inclusive outdoor spaces involves making physical accommodations to ensure everyone can enjoy the environment comfortably and safely:

    • Pathways and Routes: Ensure pathways and routes are wide, flat, and smooth, allowing wheelchair users and those with mobility aids to move around easily. Implement ramps, curb cuts, and handrails where needed.
    • Restrooms and Amenities: Design restrooms and amenities that are wheelchair accessible, equipped with grab bars, and offer enough space for maneuvering.
    • Seating and Rest Areas: Provide seating and rest areas along trails and activity areas to cater to individuals who may need to take breaks or rest frequently.

    3. Equipment and Adaptation:

    Adapting equipment and activities can greatly enhance the participation of people with impairments and disabilities:

    • Adaptive Equipment: Invest in adaptive equipment such as all-terrain wheelchairs, hand cycles, and sports-specific gear that caters to a variety of impairments.
    • Training and Support: Train staff to assist with equipment setup, transfers, and usage. Offer guidance to participants on selecting the right equipment for their needs.

    4. Staff Training and Competencies:

    Well-trained staff play a pivotal role in creating an inclusive environment:

    • Awareness and Understanding: Provide comprehensive training on impairments, disabilities, and neurological conditions. Promote empathy, respect, and sensitivity towards all participants.
    • Communication Skills: Train staff in effective communication techniques, including active listening and appropriate language usage when addressing people with disabilities.

    5. Flexible Program Design:

    Flexibility in program design ensures that participants with various needs can fully enjoy outdoor activities:

    • Customisation: Offer the option for participants to customise activities based on their abilities and preferences. Provide alternatives and modifications to suit different skill levels.
    • Group and Individual Options: Develop activities that can be enjoyed in groups or individually, allowing participants to choose their comfort level.

    6. Inclusive Events:

    Organise events and workshops that promote inclusivity and awareness:

    • Disability Awareness Workshops: Host workshops for staff and the community to raise awareness about disabilities and educate on creating an inclusive environment.
    • Inclusive Events: Organize events specifically designed for participants with disabilities. Collaborate with local disability organisations to ensure these events meet their needs.

    7. Feedback and Continuous Improvement:

    Regularly seek feedback from participants to identify areas for improvement:

    • Feedback Mechanisms: Establish accessible channels for participants to provide feedback about their experiences and suggestions for enhancements.
    • Adaptive Strategies: Use feedback to adapt your offerings and services continuously. Engage with participants to co-create solutions for any challenges they face.

    Creating an inclusive outdoor recreation organisation requires dedication, education, and a commitment to making outdoor experiences accessible to everyone. By implementing these strategies, your organisation can truly cater to the needs of individuals with impairments and disabilities, providing them with meaningful and enjoyable outdoor experiences.

  • The word disability is so last century

    For New Zealand to evolve into a society where individuals with long-term impairments are treated as equal members socially, economically, politically, and in personal relationships, a significant shift in language usage and implicit associations is necessary.

    The term “disability” poses a challenge because it is familiar to most people when used as the medical or identity-based model where disability resides within the individual. This perpetuates ableism and reflects a preference for able-bodied individuals over those with impairments. The term itself implies a continuum of ability with one end being ideal and desirable, and the other less so, creating an underlying foundation of inequality.

    Although people may not be consciously aware of these implicit biases associated with the word, studies such as the Implicit Association Test by Harvard University reveal society’s unconscious negative associations with disabled individuals.

    The social model of disability separates disability from the person and situates it within society, dissociating negative connotations from individuals with impairments. This model utilises the term “impairment” to describe the individual, removing the negative associations tied to individual identity.

    Critics may argue that the term “impairment” perpetuates the categorization of individuals with impairments, thus perpetuating the dichotomy between normalcy and abnormalcy. However, it represents a necessary step forward for now.

    According to the social model of disability, disability arises from external factors, including social attitudes, political structures, physical environments, and institutional policies, and it is an experience that arises from the intersection of an individual living with an impairment and societal barriers.

    Embracing the social model of disability and adopting clear language is crucial for New Zealand’s progression towards equality. By distancing disability from the individual and situating it within societal structures, a foundation for political and societal change is laid, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of human diversity.

    To achieve this, sensitivity to the preferences of individuals with impairments regarding identity is essential. Recognizing individuals as equals, devoid of inspirational or pity narratives, and acknowledging their intrinsic value in contributing to society, is paramount.

    In conversations with individuals with impairments, respecting their preferred identity is akin to acknowledging gender and political identities, fostering an environment of equality and respect.

    It is crucial to scrutinize language usage, challenge implicit biases, and engage with individuals as equals, recognizing their inherent worth and contributions.