In a world that often strives for inclusivity and diversity, it is important to shed light on the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Disability History Month serves as a poignant reminder of the journey towards equality and understanding.
In a world that often strives for inclusivity and diversity, it is important to shed light on the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Disability History Month serves as a poignant reminder of the journey towards equality and understanding. As we reflect on the past and present, it is crucial to recognise that the greatest disability in society lies not in physical or cognitive impairments, but in the inability to perceive people as fully human.
The greatest disability in society is the ability to see people as less than human.
This quote from Robert M. Hensel is a powerful statement as for me, it encapsulates the essence of Disability History Month. Beyond the physical or cognitive differences that individuals may have, it emphasises the importance of changing societal perspectives. When we view people through the lens of their abilities rather than their disabilities, we open doors to encourage empathy, compassion, and true understanding.
Disability history is interwoven with stories of resilience, triumph, and the ongoing struggle for equality. Throughout history, people with disabilities have faced discrimination, exclusion, and societal prejudices. Disability History Month provides an opportunity to delve into these narratives, to understand the systemic challenges that have been overcome, and to appreciate the progress that has been made.
The following four individuals that have been choosen are more then just activists; they are human beings who saw a cause that they believed they could help change, from creating accessible news and media platforms to challenging social stigmas. They chose to open doors for everyone and to make the world a better place for all.
Mosharraf Hossain – Activist and Company Director
Mosharraf Hossain worked with people with disabilities in rural areas to try to understand the stigma attached to people with disabilities within Bangladesh, and through that, created a programme to change these attitudes.
Helen Keller – Author and Activist
Helen Keller is one of the most well known figures of the 20th century who inspired future generations of those with disbilities to live their lives to the fullest.
Silvia Quan – Activist and Researcher
Silvia Quan is qualified in Mathematics and has a degree in Chemistry and Postgraduates in Social Administration, Interdisciplinary and Gender Studies, and a Masters in Human Rights.
Shilpi Kapoor – Activist and Entrepreneur
Shilpi Kapoor is the founder of BarrierBreak. She believes that technology can be the game changer for inclusion, and has developed NewzHook, the world's first inclusive news app.