Ableism to Disability Pride: Transformation Model

Published: 2021-07-05
Author: Michael Sugarman MSW - Phred Swain-Sugarman Peer Advocate | Contact: Disabled World (Disabled-World.com)
Peer-Reviewed Publication: N/A
Library of Related Papers: Disability Publications Publications

Synopsis: Moving from ableism to disability pride is not simple as the world does not shift from discrimination to inclusivity overnight but with perseverance and courage we can move toward personal and systemic change. The American Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination in employment, transportation, public accommodations and government programs. Disability Pride celebrates the disability rights and independent living movements, culture, diversity and encourage recognition by the broader community.

Main Digest

Ableism to Disability Pride: Transformation Model : Ableism-discrimination and bias against People with Disabilities

Related Publications:

Moving from ableism to disability pride is not simple.The world does not miraculously shift from discrimination to inclusivity overnight. Ableism to Disability Pride: Transformation Model recognizes that our journeys are not linear; we progress and regress. We may go through the same phase multiple times and/or different phases simultaneously. However, with perseverance and courage we can move toward personal and systemic change.

Common Reactions to Ableism

Shame: Experience pain and lack of belonging resulting from societal norms and values.
Feeling fear and anxiety: Worry about abilities and skills.
Sadness: Defines self-worth.
Low self esteem: Question competence.

Paths to Transformation

The American Disabilities Act (ADA): Prohibits discrimination in employment, transportation, public accommodations and government programs.
Radical Acceptance: Accept who you are as you are.
Community: Experience a common bond with others.
Support: Create safe spaces with therapists, families, peers, employment resource group and allies.
Clinical Tools: Empower and develop skills to be effective participant in life.
Self-Care: Take actions that support physical, self-compassion and emotional well-being.
Activism: Engage in transforming political, social and cultural norms.
Awareness: Raise consciousness about bias.

Self-Society

Inclusivity: Provide same rights and accessibility for all and create environments that are just.
Self-Pride: Accept whole self, including disability, rather than feeling it's a personal tragedy and cultivate a positive identity.
Disability Pride: Celebrate the disability rights and independent living movements, culture, diversity and encourage recognition by the broader community.

Resources

1. Bogart, Kathleen "How Disability Pride Fights Ableism" Psychology Today August 10, 2020
2. Dunn, Dana PH.D. & Shane Bucaw "Thinking about Disability Identity" Disability Newsletter American Psychological Association Nov. 2013
3. Models of Disability: Types and Definitions Published:2019-12-06 : Author: Disabled World: Contact: disabled-world.com Affirmation of disability; Disability Identity Politics and Activism; and Empowering Model of Disability.

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