In the nuanced realms of education and the workplace, the language we employ wields a profound influence on attitudes and inclusivity. An intriguing contrast emerges when examining the terminology used for different student or employee groups. While Indigenous students are often celebrated for their "ways of knowing," individuals with...
Hello there! Did you know that October is Disability Employment Month? It's an exciting time to shine a light on the importance of inclusive workplaces and recognize the valuable contributions of individuals with disabilities. In this blog post, we'll explore why Disability Employment Month is significant and share some ideas on how...
As we begin a new school year, it's crucial to ensure that students with disabilities, feel confident, involved, and social within the classroom. Setting clear expectations and employing effective strategies in the first week can lay a strong foundation for an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Let’s explore some...
Person first/identity first language; is there a clear choice?
Person first/identity first language is a topic of ongoing debate within the disability community. The idea behind person first language is to put the person before their disability. For example, instead of saying "disabled person," one would say "person with a disability." The idea...
Levels of Ableism
As someone who lives with a disability, I am keenly aware of the pervasive and damaging effects of ableism. Ableism is a term that refers to discrimination, prejudice, and bias against individuals with disabilities. It is a form of oppression that is deeply rooted in our society and affects people in both visible and invisible...
This article explores common defenses used when discussing ableist language and highlights the importance of challenging them. It emphasizes that using ableist language perpetuates harm, regardless of intent, and dismisses concerns as oversensitivity. By understanding the impact of language, promoting inclusivity, and adopting alternative words...
In the pursuit of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), it is imperative that we recognize and prioritize the visibility of disability. To truly achieve a society that values and uplifts every individual, we must ensure that disability is not forgotten within the broader EDI movement. Disability inclusion is not an optional add-on; it is an...
Disability Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) are gaining critical importance in both the workforce and educational institutions. Recognizing the need for inclusive environments, organizations and schools are making efforts to prioritize disability EDI. But why does it matter, and what factors contribute to its increasing visibility and...
