Attention all those who champion the idea of the power of diversity in storytelling. In this week’s blog post I want to dive into a topic that touches the heart of societal change: the importance of accurate and diverse representation of disability in media. Whether it’s the big, or little screen, literature, music or the stage, the way disabled people are portrayed has a profound impact on public perception of disabled lives. It can also affect the self-image disabled people have of themselves. Let's explore how positive representation can shift narratives, challenge stereotypes, and pave the way for a more inclusive society, with some standout examples that have made waves in recent years.

I think most anyone would agree that media has the power to shape beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions. Unfortunately, when it comes to disability too often the stories told are rife with stereotypes or, worse, leave disabled individuals out of the narrative entirely. Accurate and diverse representation, however, offers a different path—one where disabled individuals are seen as they truly are: complex, multifaceted people with their own stories, challenges, and triumphs.

This kind of representation can challenge stereotypes, increase visibility, empower the disability community and educate society about disabled lives and the impact of ableism in our daily lives. By showcasing the wide range of experiences of disabled people, media can break down harmful stereotypes and assumptions.

Additionally, positive and diverse portrayals of disabled people increases our visibility, helping to normalize disability as part of the human experience. For non-disabled viewers, accurate representation serves as an education on the realities of living with a disability, fostering empathy and understanding. Unfortunately so many people have an ignorant understanding of what living with a disability is like. This ignorance breeds fear, prejudice and discrimination.

Lastly, for the disability community, seeing a disabled person’s experience in movies and on television (ideally portrayed by someone who is disabled) can be incredibly empowering. Seeing oneself reflected in stories is not only entertaining, but affirming. The reality is that the entertainment industry is a profit-driven enterprise. Often the default bias of producers, directors and writers, is that a story centering on the life experiences of a disabled person will not sell tickets. This bias must be addressed and overcome. Disabled actors and storylines can be just as commercially successful as non-disabled ones. We just have to be given the chance. Recently, the highly successful and award-winning movie CODA proves this to be true.

Here are a few more examples of positive representation of disabled lives in the media:

The movie, The Theory of Everything, provides a nuanced portrayal of Stephen Hawking's life, focusing not just on his ALS diagnosis but on his groundbreaking contributions to physics. Also, Wonder, based on R.J. Palacio's novel, tells the story of a boy with Treacher Collins syndrome, emphasizing themes of acceptance and kindness.

As far as TV shows, Special is a groundbreaking Netflix series created by and starring Ryan O'Connell, who brings humor and depth to the story of a gay man with cerebral palsy navigating work and relationships. I also really enjoyed the tv show Speechless. It broke new ground by centering on a family whose eldest son has cerebral palsy, played by Micah Fowler, who has CP himself, showcasing everyday challenges and joys with authenticity and heart.

In the book Me Before You by Jojo Moyes, while controversial in its depiction of disability and assisted suicide, sparked important conversations about agency, happiness, and the portrayal of disability in romantic narratives. Another book, El Deafo by Cece Bell is a graphic novel memoir about growing up deaf, offering insights into the Deaf community and the power of embracing one’s differences.

The Epilogue Regarding Disabled People in the Media

While these examples mark progress, there's still a long way to go in achieving widespread and nuanced representation of disability in media. The industry must continue to:

• Hire Disabled Writers and Creators: Who better to tell the stories of disabled individuals than those who live that reality?

• Cast Disabled Actors in Disabled Roles: Authentic representation on screen starts with casting choices that reflect the characters being portrayed.

• Avoid “Inspiration Porn”: Focus on stories that depict disabled individuals as whole persons, not just sources of inspiration for non-disabled audiences.

• Consult with Disability Advocates: Engaging with disability advocates during the creative process will help ensure accurate and respectful representation.

Accurate and diverse representation of disabled individuals in media is not just about visibility; it's about reshaping societal narratives and fostering a world that values all people for their unique contributions. By supporting and advocating for media that reflects the true diversity of the human experience, we can help shift perceptions and create a more inclusive society. Let's champion stories that celebrate difference, challenge stereotypes, and honor the complexity of living with a disability. Let's all be part of changing the narrative, one story at a time.