Overhead view of disabled badge in hands
Today, as part of the ongoing celebration of Disability Pride Month, I want to delve into a topic that is often overlooked but is crucial in supporting people with disabilities: validation.
Living with Cerebral Palsy, chronic pain, and visual impairment, I have experienced firsthand the power of validation. It's not just about acknowledging the existence of our disabilities, but also recognizing the impact they have on our lives.
Carmen Azzopardi, a writer living with type 1 diabetes, emphasizes the importance of small things done with intention in a piece today for Fashion Journal. She writes "Sometimes the little things make the biggest difference to someone who is navigating a world that is not built for them." This resonates deeply with me. Validation, in its essence, is a 'little thing' that can make a significant difference.
Allison Tennyson, a disability and chronic illness advocate, shares her journey on social media to empower others and break stigmas. She talks about the transformative power of validation when she started using mobility aids. "When I started posting on Instagram, there wasn’t anyone out there saying it’s okay to use mobility aids," she told InTheKnow. This validation gave her the courage to embrace mobility aids, which she says changed her life.
So, how can we validate the experiences of people with disabilities? Start by actively listening. When we share our experiences, it's not always about seeking solutions. Sometimes, we just need to be heard. Ask questions to better understand our perspective. Respect our autonomy and decisions regarding our disabilities. And most importantly, challenge and change the stigmas and misconceptions about disability.
Validation is a powerful tool. It can help us feel seen, heard, and understood. It can empower us to live our lives to the fullest, despite the challenges we face. As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, let's remember to validate the experiences of people with disabilities. It's a small action that can make a big difference.
How to show up for the people in your life with a disability