How we talk about and to each other matters. But it can be hard to know what language to use when speaking about disability. Should you say "person with a disability" or "Disabled person"? Can you even say "disability" at all? In this interactive virtual session, we will explore the Medical, Social, and Affirmative Models of disability and how attitudes and language about disability have changed over time. Participants will unpack the history behind some problematic terms and turns of phrase, learn how to spot inspiration porn, and workshop how to advocate for more inclusive language in their communities.
Who is this session for?
Anyone who wants to nurture more inclusive communities where they live, work, and play! Whether you work in audience services, in the classroom, casting, or just as a citizen of the world, you’ll come away with a deeper awareness of disability history and how you can work towards more inclusive language in your community.
Accessibility
This session will be open captioned
ASL translation will be arranged as requested by registrants.
If you have additional access needs, please let us know!
Registration
Registration is Pay-What-You-Can starting at $25. Please choose the pricing tier that works best for you at this time. If you need additional financial assistance, a limited number of free sessions are available. Please contact us for information.
About the presenters
Katie Yohe is a multi-faceted performer and educator. As the Founder & Executive Artistic Director of the nonprofit organization, A.B.L.E - Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations, Katie specializes in collaborating with individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD). Katie holds a BFA in Drama from Syracuse University and an MA with Distinction in Applied Theatre from The Royal Central School for Speech and Drama. Her ongoing research centers on developing creative arts programming for individuals with a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and dementia. Katie also manages her own chronic health conditions.
Emma MacLean has always been interested in work made at the intersection of art and disability. She has worked as a teaching artist for over a decade with the Spotlight program, Chicago Children's Theatre's Red Kit program and others. Emma is also a textile artist who makes work about illness and disability. Her quilts and other textile work has been displayed in exhibits across the US. Emma works to support individuals with disabilities in tech apprenticeships. Emma obtained her Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies certifications from IAAP.
About A.B.L.E.
A.B.L.E. - Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations is a Chicago-based nonprofit with a mission of providing performing arts opportunities through which individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) can share who they are and all they are A.B.L.E. to do. Since 2016, A.B.L.E. has been creating innovative theatre, film, and digital projects for, with, and by actors with a range of disabilities including Down syndrome, autism, and cerebral palsy. A.B.L.E. has built a methodology rooted in fostering agency and independence, and celebrating the creativity of individuals of all abilities, both in person and virtually. By placing participants with disabilities in the spotlight, A.B.L.E. strives to shift societal preconceptions, and build more inclusive, empathetic communities.
Questions?
If you need additional information, please contact A.B.L.E.'s Executive Artistic Director, Katie Yohe (katie@ableensemble.com)
