Centering Disabled Voices
“I wanna see feisty disabled people change the world.”
– Judy Heumann
Disability Rights
Disability Rights
The ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), enacted in 1990, stands as a pivotal moment of the disability rights movement. Going beyond mere physical accessibility, the ADA affirmed the fundamental rights of individuals with disabilities to participate fully in all aspects of society, from education to employment and beyond.
Judy Heumann
Judy Heumann, often acknowledged as the mother of the disability rights movement, dedicated her life to advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Her groundbreaking activism laid the foundation for significant advancements in accessibility, education, and civil rights. Judy’s legacy continues to shape the ongoing fight for equality and empowerment for disabled people worldwide.
The UNCRPD
Lasting Impact
Reflect on the principle of “Nothing about us without us”
What does this principle mean to you? How does it shape your understanding of advocacy and inclusion for people with disabilities? In what ways can society better incorporate this principle into policy-making and decision-making processes?
Further Learning: Crip Camp Documentary
“Crip Camp” is an Oscar nominated documentary that sheds light on the pivotal role of Camp Jened, a summer camp for disabled youth, in sparking the revolutionary disability rights movement. Through heartfelt interviews and archival footage, the film captures the spirit of activism and community that emerged from the camp, ultimately leading to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Achieving Accessibility
The Intersection of Law & Design
Law plays a pivotal role in informing accessible design, as seen in the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This legislation catalyzed a monumental shift towards inclusivity, yet achieving a fully accessible society remains an ongoing journey. While the ADA provides crucial legal frameworks, translating law into action is also key. It underscores the need for continuous advocacy and proactive measures to ensure equal access and participation for all.
Nothing Without Us
The mantra ‘nothing about us without us’ emphasizes the essential role of individuals with disabilities in achieving meaningful accessibility. It underscores the importance of incorporating their insights, expertise, and lived experiences into the design and implementation of accessible environments, technologies, and services.
Inclusively Designed
Accessibility goes beyond meeting standards; it’s about understanding diverse needs. Involving individuals with disabilities in design isn’t just best practice; it’s necessary. It ensures usability and fosters true inclusivity, making environments, products, and services welcoming to all
“If I have to feel thankful about an accessible bathroom, when am I ever gonna be equal in the community?”
– Judy Heumann
The Digital Frontier
A11y
Reflect on the future of digital accessibility
In what ways can we create a world where every new technology, platform, and service is inherently inclusive, welcoming people with disabilities as creators and contributors? How can we work towards this vision in our own spheres of influence?
Ongoing Journey
Activity
Disability Lens
By examining the products and belongings in our lives with a disability lens, we uncover whether they promote inclusivity or present barriers. This activity encourages us to consider the design, accessibility, and empowerment aspects of everyday items.
Inclusive Products
Explore the items in your life through a disability lens. Consider who made them, their accessibility, and whether they empower everyone. Choose a product, clothing item, or piece of technology. Share a picture or description with us on Discord, highlighting its inclusivity or limitations.
Up Next: How to Be an Ally
Amar Mangat
