AODA and Human Rights Code: Ableism

Summary

Ableism refers to societal attitudes and systems that discriminate against people with disabilities, seeing them as less capable or valuable than non-disabled individuals. These biases can be conscious or unconscious and are often ingrained in policies, practices, and environments, leading to exclusion. Examples include inaccessible physical spaces and the use of jargon that excludes those unfamiliar with certain terms. However, ableism is not inevitable—everyone can contribute to creating a more inclusive society by valuing the potential of all individuals, both disabled and non-disabled.

Takeaways

• 💡 Ableism refers to societal attitudes that limit the potential of people with disabilities, viewing them as less worthy or capable.
• 👥 People with disabilities are often seen as less able to contribute or participate in society, similar to how racism, sexism, or ageism functions.
• 🧠 Ableism can be conscious or unconscious, and it is often ingrained into our systems, policies, beliefs, and culture.
• 🏛️ Society typically considers non-disabled people as 'normal,' making anything different seem 'abnormal,' which creates exclusion.
• 🚫 Designing social and physical environments with only non-disabled people in mind leads to inaccessible spaces for people with disabilities.
• 🚪 Common examples of ableism include stairs in buildings and assuming everyone uses vision to navigate the world, which excludes others.
• 💬 The use of jargon or specialized language in classrooms, workplaces, or conversations can exclude people who don't understand those terms.
• 🏫 Ableist beliefs have contributed to lower education, employment, and income rates among disabled people, leading to more precarious living situations.
• 🌍 Ableism is not inevitable—there are many actions we can take to recognize everyone's potential, facilitate access, and promote inclusion.
• 📞 Resources for promoting accessibility are available through McMaster's accessibility office and equity inclusion office.

Q & A

What is ableism?

Ableism refers to negative attitudes in society that limit the potential of people with disabilities, often viewing them as less worthy or capable than non-disabled people.

How is ableism similar to other forms of discrimination?

Ableism is comparable to racism, sexism, or ageism as it is a belief system that treats certain groups as inferior. In this case, it targets individuals with disabilities.

Is ableism always intentional?

No, ableism can be either conscious or unconscious, and it can be intended or unintended. It's often ingrained in societal systems, policies, and attitudes.

How does society often treat non-disabled people compared to disabled people?

Society tends to see non-disabled people as the standard or 'normal,' while those with disabilities are considered 'different' or 'abnormal,' leading to their exclusion.

What are some common examples of ableism in physical spaces?

One example is designing buildings with stairs but no ramps, assuming all people can walk. Another is relying on vision for orientation, excluding people who are blind.

How can ableism manifest in communication settings, such as classrooms or workplaces?

Using jargon or specialized vocabulary can exclude people unfamiliar with these terms, automatically limiting their participation in discussions.

What is the impact of negative beliefs about people with disabilities?

Negative beliefs can lead to discriminatory policies, practices, and behaviors, such as limiting access to education and employment for people with disabilities.

How does ableism affect employment and income for disabled individuals?

Ableism contributes to lower education and employment rates for disabled people, which in turn leads to lower income and more precarious housing situations.

Is ableism unavoidable in society?

No, ableism is not inevitable. There are many actions people can take to respect the dignity and worth of both disabled and non-disabled individuals.

How can people work to promote accessibility and inclusion?

People can promote accessibility by recognizing everyone's potential, eliminating barriers, and ensuring access to opportunities for all. Resources are available through organizations like McMaster University’s accessibility office.