Disability and queerness are both concepts that have been historically excluded from mainstream society and culture. For many people who identify as both disabled and queer, this exclusion can be compounded, leading to further marginalization and isolation. In this article, I will explore how the intersection of disability and queerness impacts social inclusion.
Disability and Queerness Defined
Disability is defined as "a long-term physical, mental, intellectual, sensory, or psychiatric impairment" that affects everyday life. It can be visible or invisible, and it can range from mild to severe. Queerness refers to identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, asexual, pansexual, intersex, and more. It encompasses sexual orientation, gender identity, and romantic attraction.
Overlapping Oppressions
For individuals who identify as both disabled and queer, there are several ways in which their oppression intersects. First, they may face discrimination based on both their disability and their queerness, leading to double stigma. Second, they may experience unique forms of ableism and homophobia not experienced by either group alone. Third, they may face barriers to accessing resources and support due to their dual status.
Barriers to Social Inclusion
One significant barrier to social inclusion for those with disabilities and queer identities is accessibility. Many spaces, events, and services are not designed with these populations in mind, making them difficult or impossible to use. This includes everything from physical access (such as ramps or elevators) to communication methods (such as sign language interpreters).
Some groups may actively exclude people based on their disabilities or sexual orientations.
Many LGBTQ+ organizations do not have disability-inclusive policies, while many disability organizations do not explicitly address the needs of LGBTQ+ members.
Solutions for Inclusion
To promote greater social inclusion for those with disabilities and queer identities, we need to work towards creating more accessible spaces and events. This means providing accommodations like ASL interpreters, wheelchair ramps, and low lighting levels for sensory processing issues. It also means educating ourselves about our own biases and assumptions regarding these groups and working to create a welcoming environment that values everyone's unique experiences.
How does the intersection of disability and queerness affect social inclusion?
Disability and queerness intersect with different impacts on social inclusion. Queer people are likely to experience rejection from their families, friends, and communities due to negative attitudes toward non-heteronormative gender expression and sexuality. Additionally, many individuals may have internalized homophobia, transphobia, ableism, and other prejudices that lead to discrimination against them based on multiple identities.