Internalized ableism is an often unintentional form of discrimination that targets people with disabilities, usually based on harmful assumptions about their capabilities and worth. It can manifest in well-meaning but harmful behaviors, making it essential to unlearn these habits that you or others around you may not even be entirely aware of.
For example, the portrayal of people with disabilities as being “inspirational” to non-disabled people is a classic example of ableism. This language objectifies and reduces people with disabilities to their disability, rather than recognizing their inherent worth and humanity.
Another common example of ableism is the use of language that unfairly characterizes mental health conditions, such as referring to someone with depression as “aggressive” or “mentally unstable.” This language not only encourages harmful stereotypes but also reinforces the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Although this list of examples can go on and on, let’s talk about how we can unlearn internalized ableism and promote respect, understanding, and accessibility! Here are a few strategies:
1. Avoid using ableist language: Refrain from using language that objectifies or stigmatizes people with disabilities. Instead, use person-first language that respects them in the same way you would respect a non-disabled person. An example of person-first language is using “person with a disability” instead of “disabled person”. This phrasing emphasizes the individual’s identity as a person, rather than their disability.
2. Educate yourself: Learn about disability culture, history, and experiences to better understand the impact of internalized ableism.
3. Create inclusive spaces: Design spaces that are accessible and welcoming to people with disabilities, including physical spaces and virtual environments.
4. Listen to and amplify disabled voices: Center the experiences and perspectives of people with disabilities in your work, conversations, and community-building efforts.
5. Challenge internalized ableism: Interrupt internalized ableist thoughts and behaviors in yourself and others, promoting a culture of respect, empathy, and inclusivity.
By working together to unlearn internalized ableism, we can create a more inclusive and respectful society where people with disabilities are valued, respected, and appreciated exactly as they are.
Unlearning Internalized Ableism
