Ableism

People with different abilities have been marginalized and stigmatized by a cultural attitude of avoidance. Even though laws have been passed and change has been made to make the world more accessible and inclusive, it is still primarily built for people of “normal” abilities. The way our architecture, furniture, tools, appliances and recreational spaces are designed, for the most part, reinforce the idea that this world was not created for people with disablities, that they do not belong.

Those living in the intersection of being both disabled and BIPOC and/or LGBTQ, are even further ostracized and isolated because of the white supremacist patriarchal culture that is prominent today. Those willing must continue to do the inner work that it takes to become capable of being a real ally and support to these populations to create the change necessary to make our world accessible to all.

"Art therapists who work with people with intellectual disabilities (ID) have the responsibility to align their goals with their clients, understand the power and privilege inherent in the position of the practitioner, and recognize when they are entering into clients’ communities (Miller, Ludwick & Kramer, 2020)."

A must see resource: 

Newnham, N. & LeBrech, J.(Director). (2020). Crip Camp: A disability revolution. [Video].  https://www.netflix.com/title/81001496

Miller, S.M., Ludwick, J., & Krcmar, C.C. (2020). Professional considerations for art therapists supporting the work of people with intellectual disabilities. Art Therapy, 37:2, 83-87.DOI: 10.1080/07421656.2020.1757376