Melwood’s Post

For Disability Pride Month, NPR asked readers and listeners to answer the question, "What's one thing you wish people knew about living with a disability?" *Disabilities aren't one size fits all. *Disability is a spectrum. *It could happen to you. *We're whole, complex individuals. *Ask us what we're capable of. https://lnkd.in/eeR-p_dU #DisabilityPrideMonth

"Our disabilities are not flaws to be fixed, but integral parts of our identities that shape our unique perspectives and strengths," Kim Chua said. "I wish people knew that we're not defined solely by our disabilities. We're whole, complex individuals with dreams, talents, and contributions to make. By embracing neurodiversity and disability as natural variations of the human experience, we can unlock the full potential of our society.” On the last day of Disability Pride Month, hear what NPR readers want you to know about living with a disability. Read the full article: https://ow.ly/Fr6A50SNJc7 #DisabilityPride #DisabilityPrideMonth #DisabilityInclusion #Disability

In a world where labels often define our perceptions of others, the word “disability” has the power to shape how we view individuals living with various conditions. Yet, it’s crucial to recognize that disability doesn’t diminish one’s humanity; rather, it is just one aspect of a multifaceted identity. #disability #epilepsy #epilepsywarrior #epilepsyawareness #determination #dedication #morethanjustalable #individuality #neverstopfighting #nevergiveup #nevergiveuponyourdreams

Have you ever considered that not all people who identify as having a disability agree on how to think or talk about disability? We believe in understanding and championing the diversity of our disability community for the benefit of those within it, and outside of it. We talked to Relay Resources CEO Dr. Jennifer Camota Luebke about the different ways to think about disability and the variety of approaches in talking about and understanding disability diversity. Dive into this topic on our blog and share your own perspective below. https://loom.ly/czVEO-w [ ID: The graphic features an illustration of a group of people with vith visible disabilities. The text says Understanding Disability Diversity. A Q&A with Dr. Jennifer Camota Luebke. ] #DisabledCommunity #DisabilityDiversity #DisabilityCommunity #Perspective #Disabilities #Disability #DisabilityAwareness #NDEAM

Many, many disabilities are not easily visible or not visible at all. You most certainly know someone with a disability, since 25% of all adults in the US qualify as disabled. Yet the stigma around disability -- which includes mental illnesses and neurodivergence -- is so high that many prefer to keep their disability a secret. This article explains why representation is crucial for disability rights. #disabilityawarenessmonth #neurodivergent #disabilityrepresentation #disabilityrights

July is Disability Pride Month. The purpose of Disability Pride Month is to change the way people think about disability to end its stigma and promote the idea that disability is a part of human diversity. This article explores the challenge of people with disabilities working harder, the value of hiring disabled employees and listening to their voices, and tips on how to be a disability ally. https://buff.ly/3xTQrwK #Disability #DisabilityPride

🌟 At EPSI we strongly oppose the NCD's recommendation to eliminate the AbilityOne Program. With Americans with disabilities employed at less than half the rate of their nondisabled peers, dismantling this vital employment source is not the answer. Instead, we call for modernizing AbilityOne to better align with today’s disability policies. Let’s work together to enhance employment opportunities for the disabled community. #DisabilityInclusion #AbilityOne #EmploymentEquity

“People with disability are too often seen as problems to be solved, rather than the problem-solvers with agency to act.” What a powerful statement — and all the more reason why everyone should give this piece a read. The Priorities Project is an initiative by — and for — people with disabilities. The Project highlights six priority areas the Federal government needs to focus on to build a truly inclusive community. For instance, affordable and accessible housing is still a significant challenge for people with disabilities. Currently, it is nearly impossible to get home modifications outside the NDIS — but 88% of Australians with disability are not on the scheme. It’s clear that moving forward, we need to hear from the people who need these changes most. Advocating for people with disabilities is only possible when we are listened to wholeheartedly. #2024DisabilityEmpowerment #Disability #Accessibility #Housing

Recently I attended a learning celebration for IDEB (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Belonging) to promote understanding and curiosity about inclusion. Out of the many takeaways, I decided to focus on two small changes that I can implement right away: 1. Utilize header structures in emails: By using the header structure provided by tools like Microsoft (e.g., Header 1, Header 2), we can ensure that accessibility technologies, such as text-to-speech software, can easily identify and navigate the structure of our emails. This makes our content more accessible and easier to understand for everyone. 2. Avoid using color to convey information: Colours can be problematic for those who are color blind. Instead of using color to differentiate sections or responses, I will use clear text labels. For example, instead of coloring my response, I'll format it like this: **Polina’s response:** This approach ensures that the information is accessible to all, regardless of their ability to perceive color. But most importantly, the celebration session made me more alert to small things that make a difference. Here is a great read to refresh your memory on how to be a better ally. #Accessibility #BusinessCommunications #Inclusion #BestPractices 

Happy Disability Pride Month! As the linked article states, "July is an occasion to celebrate people with disabilities, ... and applaud their achievements. July is also a powerful reminder about the importance of disability rights and why we fight for them. While some progress is being made ... more should be done before we live in a truly inclusive world." Let's keep our minds open to how we can make the world as inclusive and accessible as possible, for ALL. #disabilitypride #disabilitypridemonth https://lnkd.in/gRrZ7-Da