If non-disabled allies are so effective at speaking/researching/advocating
on disabled peoples’ behalf - then this discussion wouldn’t have arisen at
all- there’d be absolutely no need for it. The case would already be proven.
Of course disabled people must speak for themselves about their experiences
(if they want to), of course disabled people must advocate for themselves
(if they want to and have the energy to do so), and yes disability arts is
exactly what it says on the tin.
If allies want to join in and help the cause – OK .But terms such as ‘the
disabled’ ‘able-bodied’ and ‘people with disabilities’ (which have all been
used in this continuing thread) aren’t endearing. They show a lack of basic
knowledge, a lack of understanding of multiple discriminations, and a
complete lack of understanding of the social model- So if you want to tell
everyone how good you are and how inflexible we are – at least use the right
language rather than endless comparators of race and gender and complaints
about perceived exclusion from disability arts (LOL). .
Issues of disability aren’t some academic puzzle to pose and posture with-
they are real issues that affect peoples’ lives dramatically.
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