What Is Ableism?

Ableism is the discrimination of and social prejudice against people with physical or mental disabilities. Discrimination against individuals on the basis of disability occurs in many different forms and can have a variety of negative consequences, such as social exclusion, employment discrimination, and poverty.

Ableism is a pervasive problem in society, and it can manifest itself in a variety of ways. For example, people with disabilities may be denied access to education, employment, or healthcare. They may also be subjected to verbal or physical abuse.

Ableism can also be expressed through more subtle means, such as the use of language that is dismissive or derogatory of people with disabilities. For example, someone might refer to a person with a disability as "retarded" or "crippled."

Additionally, ableism can be reflected in the way society is physically structured. For example, many public spaces are not designed to accommodate people with disabilities, such as those who use wheelchairs or have difficulty walking.

Ableism is harmful because it dehumanizes people with disabilities and denies them the full enjoyment of their rights and opportunities. It also creates barriers that make it difficult for people with disabilities to participate fully in society.

There are many things that can be done to combat ableism. One important step is to educate people about the issue and to challenge discriminatory attitudes and beliefs. Another important step is to make public spaces more accessible for people with disabilities. Additionally, it is important to support policies that protect the rights of people with disabilities.