The privilege of ability is a powerful one.The world is designed for those who are physically and mentally able. The way our houses and public buildings are structured, our education system, our policy, media representation, the lsts goes on.
Bottom line, people that are able-bodied have an advantage because they are not limited physically or mentally. Others, or even ourselves perceive those that are able-bodied as “normal”. Many also assume that we all have equal opportunity and access. People that use a wheelchair cannot access all buildings. Not everyone can watch tv or listen to the radio with supports such as closed captions or an extra listening device. Some people cannot just get up and go somewhere without the help of an aid, a support animal, or a special vehicle. A big challenge for people with a disability is the loss of flexibility and autonomy. Want to take an impulse road trip? A person with a disability might have to think about who will drive, who will help them eat or go to the bathroom, how will they afford gas, will hotels be accessible for their needs? People with disabilities to have the privilege of easy access.
What Can People that are Able-Bodied Do?
If you are a person that is able-bodied. here’s what you can do to support those that are differently abled. Monitor your language. Make sure to ask how a person wants to be referred to. Some people prefer person-first language, such as a person with autism, while other may prefer an autistic person. The reasoning behind this may be because autism is not something a person will ever live without, and is a part of their identity. This is just one explanation I’ve seen. Everyone has different preferences, so be mindful of that!
Additionally do not use the r-word. Ever! Period! No exceptions!
If you can, advocate for people with disabilities by educating yourself about their rights and what rights they don’t currently have access to. Advocate for them with politicians to try and make change. This is especially important if you work with people with disabilities (e.g. a care provider, healthcare worker, or educator, etc.) but also if you don’t! Anyone can be an advocate for people with disabilities.
What does disability look like?
People that are differently abled are everywhere, and many disabilities are invisible, such as aphasia (a loss of language post-stroke); bipolar disorder; anxiety; depression; visual or auditory challenges; diabetes; chronic pain; post traumatic stress disorder. Sometimes people are thought as faking these disabilities, or their challenges are lessened because people can’t see them. This is very discouraging and hard for people with a different ability. These people are less likely to be open about their experiences or ask for help. Lift these people up and acknowledge their struggles. This is one way to help make a more inclusive environment and open dialogue about disability, chronic pain, and mental health. Many of these people at one time were able-bodied and experienced a trauma, injury or other difficult experience that changed their ability. They were once considered normal and now are not. For those who always were differently abled or experienced a change in their ability, be kind and understanding.I guarantee there is someone in your life that this applies to. Get to know what these people need, and follow through!
What's next?
Like with many privileges, be mindful of others experiences and never assume a person is free of physical and mental challenges unless they tell you so! Our world is not always kind to people that are differently abled, but we can be! If you’d like to advocate for people with disabilities and mental health challenges, check out the Center for Disability Rights and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Additionally, check out my resource hub (and privilege gallery) and Coronavirus resources page if you are person with a disability or an ally.
