Spotlighting the Unique Challenges of Intersectionality in the Disability Community

If you live in progressive circles like I do, you have probably heard the term “intersectionality” a time or two. In today’s blog post I want to explore what intersectionality is and how it exists in the disability community.

But before I go any further, I think it is important to note that the disability community is not a monolith. I feel like I have to give this disclaimer a lot in non-disabled spaces because (unfortunately) the very ableist idea exists that we, disabled people, all think alike, talk alike, share exactly the same life experiences, and believe exactly all the same things.

NOTHING could be further from the truth.

Yes, I feel it is safe to say that individuals who choose to identify as disabled, probably do experience some of the same things in life. But it would be inaccurate for me to limit those experiences or define them very specifically. How one perceives their life condition is very personal and subjective. So, with that disclaimer, let’s move onto the more complex topic of intersectionality.

Coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, the word "intersectionality" provides a framework for understanding how various forms of inequality and discrimination overlap. In the context of disability, this means acknowledging that disabled individuals do not face a single type of prejudice or barrier, but rather, a tapestry of interconnected challenges that affect them uniquely based on their intersecting identities. Identities such as race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, education, etc.

The purpose of examining compound marginalization is to broaden our understanding of lived experiences by sub-cohorts within the larger disability community. When we take the time to talk and listen to each other, true understanding can occur. Only then can truly inclusive movements advocate for progressive change for the entire disability community.

For example, a Black woman with a disability may face sexism, racism, and ableism, each layer adding to her experience of marginalization. A Hispanic gay man with a disability may face homophobia, racism, and ableism. A white woman who has a hidden disability, is bi-sexual and high-school educated may face biphobia, sexism, ableism, and classism. You get the idea. These intersecting identities can exacerbate the lack of access to healthcare, employment, education, and increase social inclusion.

The Statistics Say It All

The following are some examples in specific areas of life highlighting how the compounding effects of intersectionality among disabled people results in more bias, discrimination, and negative outcomes for life.

The Kaiser Family Foundation reports that regarding healthcare disparities, black disabled men experience significant challenges compared to white disabled men in accessing quality healthcare. The research revealed that black disabled men are three times more likely to face barriers to medical care services, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. These disparities can result in poorer health outcomes and decreased quality of life for black disabled men compared to their white counterparts.

According to the Center for American Progress, studies indicate that a considerable percentage of LGBTQ+ adults with disabilities reported household incomes below $30,000, highlighting economic insecurity exacerbated by discrimination and policy gaps. This group also experiences high rates of unemployment and poverty compared to the general population, largely due to discrimination and insufficient support systems​.

Educational barriers for disabled students of color compared to their white disabled peers are significant and multifaceted. Research indicates that students of color with disabilities face systemic barriers at much higher rates than white students with disabilities. These disparities stem from a variety of factors including historical segregation practices, biased identification processes for special education, and inequitable access to resources within the educational system​. (Urban Ed Journal)​​ (LDA America)​​ (NWEA)​.

Strategies for Inclusive Advocacy

Okay, now that we have defined what intersectionality is and how it impacts disabled people, as well as given some concrete examples of how it impacts peoples’ lives, let’s look at some inclusive advocacy strategies.

Tip #1 Amplify Diverse Voices: Elevating the voices and experiences of those at the intersections of disability and other forms of marginalization is essential. Representation matters in all spheres, including media, politics, and within disability advocacy groups.

Tip #2 Implement Intersectional Policies: Advocacy for disability rights must include policies and practices that consider the full range of diversity within the community. This means advocating for comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, accessible healthcare, inclusive education, and employment opportunities that recognize and address intersectional marginalization. There is a mantra in the disability community that states, “Nothing About Us Without Us.” We must live up to that promise.

Tip #3 Foster Collective Communities: Building alliances across movements can strengthen advocacy efforts. Collaboration between disability rights organizations and groups advocating for racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and economic equality can create a unified front against all forms of discrimination. It is important to join forces, but also not to appropriate each community’s space. For example, there has been some controversy when some members of disability community have used the Rainbow Pride symbol as their own symbol of diversity. Similarly, when some have used the Black Power fist but are not black or persons of color themselves. These might seem like hyper-sensitive examples, but they are important nonetheless.

Tip #4 Educate and Raise Awareness: Continued education on the complexities of intersectionality and disability is vital. Workshops, seminars, and inclusive curriculum development can help raise awareness and foster a more understanding and empathetic society.

I strongly believe that recognizing and addressing the multiple marginalization’s that exist within the disability community is not just an act of advocacy; it's a commitment to justice and equality. I hope this blog post can add to that conversation and be a call to action. By embracing the full complexity of intersectional identities, we can work towards a society that acknowledges, respects, and supports the diverse needs and experiences of all its members.