
For people with disabilities, there continue to be huge barriers to live in the community and not in institutions. This often means navigating systemic barriers such as housing, transportation, and our education system. But one must also understand the stigma and discrimination that underlies these public facing policies. The experience of living in the community for individuals with disabilities is often shaped by complex, intersecting challenges. While the ideal of “community living” should reflect full participation and equality, it can often be marred by systemic barriers that perpetuate inequities.
To truly create a community that supports everyone, there needs to be a fundamental shift in how society perceives disability. Moving beyond the medical model, which sees disability as something to be cured or fixed, to a more social and rights-based model can lead to better policies and a more inclusive society.
This shift would include:
- Increased advocacy and representation in media and leadership positions.
- Universal design that makes public spaces, transportation, and housing accessible to everyone.
- A more inclusive economy that provides opportunities for people with disabilities to fully engage in work and education.
Ultimately, community living for people with disabilities should be about dignity, choice, and inclusion. It’s about shifting not just policy, but cultural attitudes—ensuring that people with disabilities are not just “included” but are active, equal members of the community. This means addressing both the tangible barriers like housing and transportation and the deeper, more entrenched stigma that prevents full integration and acceptance.
Below, you’ll find ways we are actively working to disrupt these systemic barriers and address ableism and stigma in our communities. Whether it’s through sharing personal stories, advocating for improved policies, or informing people of their rights with articles and infographics, we are committed to ending ableism within our communities
We also want ensure we are highlighting the ways in which disabled people are thriving in their communities, such as our Disabled Authors Series.
