Disability is often misunderstood on a deeper level by people who are otherwise knowledgeable of diversity issues.
Co-moderators of this interactive session will dive right into intercultural exercises that will help to make visible some of the hidden assumptions that people make about people with disabilities, and then discuss the underlying values, such as paternalism, that drive these perceptions. Different models of disability will be shown and explained to aid in a shift in thinking.
Barriers that arise, especially those that require policy modifications or funding, and underlying fears or beliefs, may derail best intentions and create seemingly unresolvable concerns. Where there is a will, there is a way, and this session seeks to assist attendees in navigating a smoother, fair process. People with good intentions still have “blindspots” and three approaches from social psychology research will show how to neutralize biases so it does not impact decision-making.
Using visual aids, the presenters will make clear the differences between equality, equity, and inclusive systems change and attendees will discuss how it applies to recruitment, advising, and programmatic and strategic planning. Concepts of challenge by choice, practice of yes, and nothing about us without us, will shift away focus from lack of resources to feelings of resourcefulness.
