Welcome to TOI’s Word of the Month series! This month, we’re focusing on ableism—bias, prejudice, and discrimination of and against people with different abilities based on the belief that typical abilities are superior.
In our community, ableism can show up in many ways, such as the lack of ramps or elevators in buildings, the under-representation of voices in leadership roles, or policies that overlook the needs of people with disabilities. It can also be more subtle, like when people are treated as less capable or excluded from activities due to assumptions about their abilities.
Addressing ableism is about more than just recognizing its existence. It requires active steps to build a more inclusive and equitable world where everyone has the dignity, respect, and opportunity to thrive, regardless of ability. Challenging ableism helps create a society that celebrates diversity and ensures no one is left behind.
To combat ableism, we can start by learning more about disability rights and the challenges people with different abilities face. Advocating for accessible infrastructure—such as ramps, captions, and sensory-friendly spaces—can make a big difference in improving accessibility. Amplifying voices ensures needs are addressed, and supporting policies that promote equity and inclusion is key to dismantling ableism.
Building an inclusive community requires collective effort. By challenging ableism in all its forms, we can create a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. As a community, we can deepen our understanding and create an environment where everyone feels valued. Take a moment to explore the resources below to learn more about how stereotyping affects our interactions and how we can foster a more inclusive community.
Read: https://cdrnys.org/blog/uncategorized/ableism/
Watch: Overcoming Ableism: What You Don’t Know As An Able Bodied Person https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1xnyVCBYNQ
Discover: Ableism and Language Around Disability https://libguides.pratt.edu/disability/ableism
