Becoming Anti-Ableist: A Disability Justice- Informed Approach to Supporting the Disability Community

Produced by The Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities at Kennedy Krieger Institute Community and Professional Development Training Program

The guide titled "Becoming Anti-Ableist: A Disability Justice-Informed Approach to Supporting the Disability Community" offers a transformative pathway towards building inclusive communities and dismantling systemic barriers faced by People with Disabilities. Developed by the Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities at Kennedy Krieger Institute, this resource provides comprehensive insights and actionable strategies for professionals and community members.

At its core, the guide emphasizes the importance of inclusive practices across all levels of society – individual, community, and societal. It explores the pervasive issue of ableism and its detrimental impact on the lives of People with Disabilities, ranging from stigma to systemic discrimination. By adopting an anti-ableist lens, the guide advocates for a paradigm shift that recognizes disability as a form of diversity and empowers People with Disabilities as experts on their own experiences.

Through the "Six P's to Inclusive Practice" framework, faith communities are encouraged to foster welcoming and inclusive environments for People with Disabilities and their families. This holistic approach addresses key areas such as person, practice, place, programs, philosophy, and policy, highlighting the interconnectedness of micro, meso, and macro-level factors in fostering inclusivity.

The guide also delves into the forms and consequences of ableism, offering insights into implicit biases, historical trauma, and systemic barriers faced by People with Disabilities. Strategies and recommendations for implementation are provided, including incorporating disability history and culture into curriculums, participating in disability-related trainings, and amplifying the voices of the disability community.

By cultivating disability humility, reframing concepts of normalcy, and acknowledging the expertise of People with Disabilities, communities can work towards building diverse, vibrant, inclusive, and accessible environments. The guide serves as a valuable resource for professionals, caregivers, and advocates striving to remove barriers and promote equity and justice for People with Disabilities, while combating ableism. Dive deeper into the guide to embark on a journey towards meaningful change and inclusive community building.

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