Can You Ask That? with SCIA's Peer and Family Support team

Summary

This conversation explores the challenges and solutions faced by individuals with disabilities, focusing on navigating daily life with mobility impairments. The speakers discuss their experiences with public spaces, accessibility, and the importance of asking for help when needed. They also touch on the lack of disability representation in media and politics, advocating for more visibility and inclusion, especially in positions of power. The discussion highlights the value of lived experience and the need for systemic change to ensure greater equity and representation.

Takeaways

• 😀 People with disabilities appreciate curiosity about their condition when it's asked respectfully. It helps reduce stigma and fosters understanding.
• 😀 There is a distinction between paraplegia and quadriplegia, where individuals with similar injuries may have vastly different capabilities.
• 😀 Asking before helping is crucial; individuals with disabilities often prefer to decide when they need assistance rather than having help imposed upon them.
• 😀 Public spaces and facilities often lack adequate accessibility, especially bathrooms and concert venues, which creates significant challenges for people with disabilities.
• 😀 Many disabilities are invisible, such as chronic pain or bladder issues, and it's important to recognize that not all challenges are immediately obvious.
• 😀 People with disabilities might struggle with the physical awkwardness of certain social interactions, such as handshakes or physical proximity, and it’s important to navigate these situations with respect.
• 😀 Having tools or assistive devices (like grabbers) can help people with disabilities gain more independence, though asking for help when needed is still important.
• 😀 There is a need for better representation of people with disabilities in the media, including both in acting roles and positions of influence, to create more accurate portrayals and advocacy.
• 😀 Disabled people should be represented in positions of power, such as in local government or councils, to ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes.
• 😀 A person-first approach to language is encouraged—e.g., ‘person with a disability’—to respect the individuality and humanity of disabled individuals.
• 😀 Many people with disabilities, while initially resistant to asking for help, often come to appreciate it later, especially when fatigue sets in, highlighting the importance of community support.

Q & A

How do people with disabilities feel about the physical closeness of others when having a conversation?

People with disabilities, especially those using mobility aids, tend to move back or adjust their position when someone gets too close. The key is ensuring comfort and avoiding awkwardness. It's important to respect personal space and maintain an appropriate distance to avoid discomfort.

What is the role of asking for help in the context of disabilities?

Asking for help can be difficult at first due to the desire for independence, but it becomes an essential part of daily life as fatigue and physical limitations set in. Whether it’s assistance with heavy tasks or simple chores like opening doors, accepting help from others is important for both physical and emotional well-being.

What are some common challenges faced when asking for help in public spaces?

Initially, many individuals with disabilities may resist asking for help due to a strong sense of independence or pride. Over time, however, they realize that asking for help, especially with heavy items or tasks, can make life easier and foster positive interactions with others who are eager to assist.

How do people with disabilities feel about unsolicited help in public spaces?

While unsolicited help is often well-meaning, it can sometimes be intrusive or uncomfortable. People with disabilities generally appreciate help when it’s offered respectfully, especially when they are struggling with something. However, the key is offering help without assuming they always need assistance.

What is the importance of disability representation in media?

Disability representation in media is important for challenging stereotypes and showcasing diverse experiences. While there is notable representation in sports, more visibility is needed in areas such as television, movies, and leadership roles. Disabled individuals should be portrayed by other disabled people to provide authentic representation.

What are the barriers to better representation of people with disabilities in media and leadership?

Barriers include systemic issues like lack of education, access to opportunities, and the tendency for roles to be filled by able-bodied actors. Additionally, the absence of people with disabilities in positions of power, like in government or councils, hinders broader societal changes and better representation.

Why is it important for people with disabilities to be represented in positions of power, such as councils or government?

It’s crucial for people with disabilities to be in positions of power because they have lived experiences that can drive more effective advocacy and decision-making. Their input can help ensure that policies are inclusive and that resources are allocated appropriately to address the needs of the disabled community.

What challenges exist in disability representation within councils and governmental positions?

One major challenge is the lack of visible disabled representation in decision-making roles. Even though individuals with disabilities may be present in some of these roles, they often remain hidden or underrepresented. This limits the ability to advocate for disability rights and make systemic changes.

How can society improve education and accessibility to support better representation for people with disabilities?

Improving education and accessibility means ensuring that disabled individuals have the same opportunities to pursue education, careers, and leadership roles. This includes removing physical barriers, promoting inclusive curricula, and creating accessible job opportunities to facilitate the entry of disabled individuals into public service and media.

What is the broader impact of positive interactions between people with disabilities and the general public?

Positive interactions foster mutual respect and understanding. When people with disabilities accept help and engage with others, it creates a sense of community and promotes inclusivity. These interactions can also raise awareness and challenge prejudices, ultimately leading to a more inclusive society.