Striving to remove barriers that prevent us from building Vibrant, Diverse, Inclusive, Accessible Communities!
Tom Shakespeare, a distinguished bioethicist, social scientist, and disability rights advocate, has dedicated his career to removing barriers that prevent full participation for People with Disabilities. His work spans academia, broadcasting, and the arts, addressing problems related to disability, genetics, and ethics. Throughout his career, he has emphasized embracing diversity rather than seeking to eliminate difference through science. His insights, shared in a compelling BBC interview with Stephen Sackur, challenge us to rethink societal approaches to disability and inclusion. Listen to this powerful discussion to deepen your understanding of the ethical dimensions shaping our communities.
Shakespeare’s contributions to removing barriers extend from research to creative advocacy, ensuring that disability remains a central part of conversations on policy and community building. From his role at the World Health Organization, where he helped produce the World Report on Disability, to his leadership at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, he has consistently worked to integrate disability inclusion into global health and development efforts. His journey, marked by lived experience and rigorous scholarship, underscores the importance of valuing all people rather than marginalizing those who do not fit a narrow societal norm.
His advocacy through public engagement, including books, documentaries, and BBC Radio broadcasts, continues to shape public perceptions of disability. His work aligns with efforts to create Vibrant, Diverse, Inclusive, Accessible Communities by fostering meaningful dialogue and evidence-based policy changes. Whether addressing barriers in healthcare, education, or public spaces, Shakespeare’s voice is a critical force in promoting disability rights and challenging systemic ableism. This BBC interview offers an opportunity to reflect on how our communities can move beyond outdated perceptions and build spaces that support full participation.
Listening to Tom Shakespeare’s interview is more than an academic exercise—it’s a call to action. As we strive for a world where People with Disabilities are valued and included, his perspective challenges us to rethink biases and advocate for policies that prioritize inclusion. Engage with his work, explore the ethical questions he raises, and join the ongoing movement toward a society where People with Disabilities belong.
Read the Full Article: Tom Shakespeare: Redefining disability
by: Stephen Sackur and Tom Shakespeare
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