What Is Ableism
You probably have no idea what Ableism is. Have you even heard of the word? Ableism is probably something you should be aware of, so I thought it might be helpful to highlight it in my blog. Hopefully, the following will give you an understanding and help you know how to deal with it if it occurs.
Sometimes it is lack of knowledge, sometimes it is ignorance or unconscious bias, and other times it is intended to wound.
What Is Ableism?
Ableism language is words or phrases that devalue disabled people, in favour of non-disabled people.
It is simply discrimination and prejudice against disabled people. Like racism is discrimination against black and against minority groups, and homophobia is against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ+) people, ableism is against disabled people.
Ableism or Ableist
Ableism is the noun.
Ableist is the adjective.
Ableism occurs more than you think.
We live in an ableist society.
Where Does It Occur and Examples
It can occur within families, friends, school, work, online or out in the community or social settings. Basically, anywhere, and everywhere.
Examples:
-Designing a public building and not making it accessible, by having provisions of a ramp or lift. Not allowing access to all areas.
-By not making information available in an accessible format e.g. large print or having British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter.
-Using disabled parking spaces, or other resources for disabled people when you don’t have a disability.
-Joking about someone’s disability.
-Giving a non-disabled candidate the job, over a disabled candidate, due to the fact you think they will be more reliable.
It can also be very subtle.
People can have an unconscious bias against disabled people. Favouring non disabled people.
Disablism, Ableism and Disability Discrimination
What is the difference?
Technically Disablism emphasises discrimination against disabled people.
Whereas Ableism emphasises discrimination in favour of non-disabled people.
However, I would say that ableism is the most used word and one you need to know and understand about.
Disability Discrimination is when you are treated worse, or put at a disadvantage for a reason that relates to your disability. It is illegal under the Equality Act 2010. Often, it relates to schools, universities and places of work.
Why Have You Never Heard of It?
Disabled people haven’t had the movement that Black and Asian minority ethnicity (BAME) and LGBTQ+ have. As such it has not been brought to the forefront of your attention.
What Can You Do to Help Combat Ableism?
Call out others, gently pointing out ableist language, phrases or actions.
Everyone is equal. Everyone deserves equity.
Hannah x
You may be interested in reading: Helpful Tips When Speaking to Wheelchair Users and Disabled People
