It’s important to note that people with disabilities and other marginalized groups often live with the burden of advocating. Sometimes, having someone who is able-bodied or who otherwise lives with privilege shoulder some of this burden is the right thing to do. Advocates with disabilities need a chance to rest and restore their energy.
If you’re reading this guide as someone who wants to act as an ally for people with disabilities, here are some tips for being a responsible ally:
- Don’t make assumptions: Never assume what a person with a disability needs or how they want to identify. Instead, just ask them. For example, before helping someone with a disability, ask if they need your help and if so, what they specifically need. Or if you’re not sure what language they prefer when talking about their disability, just ask.
- Listen: People with disabilities are experts on their own lives and know what works best for them. However, they are often overlooked by others who speak on their behalf. Actively listen to what people with disabilities have to say about their needs and priorities, rather than speaking for them.
- Educate yourself: Sometimes, allies expect people with disabilities to educate them about the issues and barriers facing the disability community. There are plenty of resources already out there. Rather than asking a person with a disability to teach you, go out and do the work yourself. Learn about the history and current issues from the many articles, videos, podcasts, books and social media accounts that document this information.
- Share or give up space: It is important that allies speak about disability issues, because people with disabilities should not be the only ones advocating for inclusion and accessibility. Always ask yourself if you are taking up a seat that could be filled by someone with lived expertise of disability. Include people with disabilities at decision-making tables.
- Make mistakes and learn: No one is perfect, and everyone is always learning. Don’t be hard on yourself. If you make a mistake, be accountable for it. If you need to apologize, do so. Learn from the experience and continue doing the work.
