‘Ableism’ is the discrimination and prejudice of people with disabilities. We often think disabilities are limited to physical impairments. However, the word ‘disabled’ is defined as “having a physical or mental condition that limits movements, senses, or activities,” meaning that chronic and neurological illnesses are disabilities. “Hidden Disabilities” are disabilities that are not immediately apparent – examples include chronic fatigue syndrome, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Autism, Major Depression, Epilepsy, etc.
A 2017 Canadian Survey on Disability showed that the employment rate of working-age adults was 59% for those with disabilities, compared to 80% for those without disabilities. In the UK, disabled employees are paid 12.2% less than their non-disabled counterparts, so even when people with disabilities are hired, they are still disadvantaged and less likely to be promoted to leadership roles. Ableism in the workplace can take on many different forms. Disabled individuals face intrusive questions regarding their condition, are asked for “proof” of a disability when it isn’t apparent, are given unwanted physical assistance, have their wheelchairs grabbed without consent, and are mocked by non-disabled people for their disabilities. Ableism harms the self-esteem of disabled individuals and is toxic to the workplace. Disabilities shouldn’t deny someone of their autonomy.
Written by Shayma Ahmed
Artwork by Zara Masood
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