The Disability Affinity Group hosted a conversation as part of UP Diversity Dialogues week. Why? Many of us grow up thinking of disability as an impairment, whereas we can shift our view of disability to see it as another facet of diversity and identity — even positive identity and pride. Unfortunately, people with disabilities still face significant stigma and barriers to participation in a largely ableist society. One of the most powerful ways we can work to change this narrative is to build disability awareness, celebrate disability culture, and create opportunities to come together in community with each other for support and advocacy. We can help reduce disability stigma simply by being our real, compassionate selves and by listening to and sharing our stories — our challenges, our learning, our joys, our creativity… Reach out if you’d like to share part of your story here.
Image credit: Gavin Britton, UP Beacon
