Disability Justice by Jake Shumbo

Disability justice is a critical framework that seeks to address the intersections of disability, race, class, gender, sexuality, and other forms of oppression. It recognizes that disability is not just a medical issue, but a social and political one that is shaped by systemic ableism and discrimination.

The disability justice movement emerged in the 2000s, primarily led by queer and trans people of color with disabilities. These activists sought to challenge the dominant disability rights movement, which they saw as being too focused on individual rights and assimilation into able-bodied society. Disability justice, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of collective action and solidarity among marginalized communities. It recognizes that disability is not just an individual experience, but a social and political one that is shaped by systemic oppression.

One of the key principles of disability justice is the concept of "nothing about us without us." This means that decisions about disability policy and programs should be made by people with disabilities themselves, rather than by able-bodied professionals or policymakers. Another key principle of disability justice is the importance of intersectionality. This means recognizing that disability intersects with other forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia. Disability justice activists argue that we cannot address disability oppression without also addressing these other forms of oppression. 

Disability justice also emphasizes the importance of accessibility and inclusivity. This means creating physical and social environments that are accessible to people with disabilities, as well as promoting inclusive policies and practices that value diversity and equity. In practice, disability justice can take many forms. For example, disability justice activists have organized protests and campaigns to challenge ableism and discrimination in education, employment, healthcare, and other areas. They have also created alternative spaces and programs that prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, such as disability-led organizations, accessible art spaces, and inclusive education programs. 

Disability justice has also influenced policy and legislation. For example, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 was a major victory for disability rights, but disability justice activists have argued that it does not go far enough in addressing systemic ableism and oppression. More recent policies, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the Disability Integration Act (DIA), have incorporated more principles of disability justice, such as accessibility, inclusivity, and self-determination. 

Despite these advances, there is still much work to be done to achieve disability justice. Ableism and discrimination remain pervasive in many areas of society, and people with disabilities continue to face significant barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and other opportunities. To achieve disability justice, we need to fundamentally transform our society and its institutions. This means challenging ableism and oppression in all its forms, and creating a more inclusive and equitable society that values diversity and promotes accessibility and self-determination. 

In conclusion, disability justice is a critical framework that seeks to address the intersections of disability, race, class, gender, sexuality, and other forms of oppression. It emphasizes the importance of collective action, intersectionality, accessibility, and inclusivity, and seeks to challenge ableism and discrimination in all its forms. By working together to achieve disability justice, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society that values diversity and promotes accessibility and self-determination.