Disability Culture

Adapted from the 2010

handbook, Americans with
Disabilities: Gaining Rights
and Respect

Types of Disabilities

Diseases and disorders

Injuries

i.e. dyslexia

You cant always tell if

someone has a disability just
by looking at him or her.

Physical conditions

i.e.cerebral palsy, autism

Learning problems

i.e. spinal cord damage, head trauma

Developmental problems

i.e. multiple sclerosis, epilepsy

i.e. impaired sight/hearing, incomplete/missing limbs

Mental illnesses

A History of Exclusion

Denied the chance to take part in public life

misguided beliefs and prejudice stood in the way

Mistreatment

shut away in institutions and asylums.

thrown into almshouses for the poor

suffered abuse and neglect

A History of Progress

Increased social responsibility (1800s):

greater educational opportunities

residential programs for people with intellectual

disability

federal assistance and new rehab programs

increased influence of parent groups and other

advocates

A History of Progress

The independent living movement (1970s):

access to needed services

greater opportunity to live on their own and take jobs

in the community

freedom from dependence on family or institutions

A History of Progress

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973

prohibit federal agencies and any organization

getting federal funds from discriminating against
people with disabilities

promote the hiring and advancement of people with

disabilities

Other Highlights

A chance to compete

Education rights

Improved access

Assistive devices

Gallaudet University

New political voice

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 1990

Most sweeping civil rights legislation for people with

disabilities.

Equal access to:

Public places

Telephone services

Employment

Transportation

Future Challenges

Job opportunities

Support services

Many still lack jobs or earn less

In-home care, personal attendants, and other assistance

Attitudes

Faulty ideas about abilities

Prejudice, discrimination, and over-sympathetic attitudes

Communicating with
People with Disabilities

Language: Words are Powerful

Put the person first

Emphasize abilities

Avoid labels (e.g. "The deaf")

Be aware of negative language

General Tips

Understand what you have in common

Be considerate, patient, & natural

Speak directly to the person

Don't make assumptions

Lend a Hand

Overcome your hesitation

Offer your assistance

Don't insist on helping

Listen to instructions

Remember

Disabilities aren't handicaps -- negative attitudes are.

disability - a condition that limits a person's ability.

handicap - an imposed barrier that restricts a person.

Society's lack of knowledge is a handicap to people with

disabilities.