Language, Culture & Values
Understanding the words and why they matter.
What does disability-affirming mean?
Disability-affirming practices are rooted in the belief that disability is not something to be pitied, fixed, or hidden—but something to be respected and affirmed as part of a person’s identity. These practices honor the lived experiences of disabled people and reject the idea that disability is inherently negative or needs to be overcome.
Being disability-affirming means listening to disabled voices, respecting their choices, and supporting autonomy. It means using language that empowers rather than erases. It also means moving away from outdated models that treat disability as a problem and toward approaches that recognize the value, rights, and contributions of disabled people.
This is important because for far too long, disabled people have been spoken about rather than with, and decisions about their lives have been made without their input. Learning and applying disability-affirming practices helps shift the culture—from charity or compliance to dignity and solidarity.
Ultimately, being disability-affirming isn’t just about accessibility—it’s about justice, identity, and respect.
What is ableism?
Ableism refers to the ways that society might unintentionally create challenges for people with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals. It encompasses attitudes, practices, and environments that can make it harder for individuals with diverse abilities and sensory or learning needs to fully engage and participate in everyday life.
Ableism can appear in various forms, such as:
1. Language and Attitudes: Using language or holding attitudes that don’t fully respect or appreciate the diverse experiences and strengths of people with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals.
2. Accessibility: When places, websites, or services aren’t designed to be easily accessible or accommodating to different sensory and learning needs, it can make it more difficult for these individuals to use them comfortably.
3. Inclusion: Sometimes, systems or activities might not consider the varied needs of people with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals, which can unintentionally leave them out of important experiences.
4. Assumptions: Making broad assumptions about what people with disabilities or neurodivergent individuals can or can’t do, instead of recognizing and valuing their unique abilities and contributions.
5. Representation: Ensuring that people with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals are included and represented in all aspects of community life and decision-making.
Creating a more inclusive society involves being mindful and making thoughtful adjustments so that everyone, regardless of their abilities or sensory and learning needs, can enjoy equal opportunities and support. It’s about celebrating and embracing each person's unique contributions and working together to ensure everyone can participate fully.
