Beyond Pity and Inspiration: Challenging Stereotypes of Differently Abled Women on International Women's Day

This International Women's Day, we celebrate the achievements and resilience of women all over the world. This year's theme is "Embrace Equality," a call to action for individuals, organisations and society to challenge gender stereotypes and discrimination in all its forms.

As a woman living with a rare autoimmune disease called Scleroderma, I know firsthand the importance of embracing equality and challenging stereotypes. People with disabilities and especially women with disabilities, are often seen as objects of pity or inspiration, rather than as capable and valuable members of society.

As women with disabilities, we face unique challenges that go beyond physical limitations. We are often excluded from social activities, denied job opportunities and face stigma and discrimination in our daily lives. These challenges are amplified for women of colour and those living in poverty.

We are so much more than our disabilities and conditions, we are not helpless!

We are strong, resilient and capable of achieving great things.

We are leaders, advocates and innovators in our communities.

We are athletes, creatives, professionals and entrepreneurs who defy the odds and break down barriers.

We are mothers, daughters, sisters and friends who contribute to society in countless ways.

First of all, Let me be clear: I am NOT "disabled," I am differently abled. The term "disabled" suggests that there is something inherently wrong with me, that I am broken or incomplete. But that couldn't be further from the truth. My body and mind are different, yes, but that difference does not make me less capable or less valuable as a human being. By using the term "differently abled," you will acknowledge and celebrate the unique strengths and abilities that each individual possesses, rather than focusing on their perceived limitations. So let's begin by challenging the language and attitudes that reinforce harmful stereotypes and instead embrace a more inclusive and empowering perspective.

Another stereotype that differently abled women encounter is the idea that we are helpless and weak. Society, mass media and pop media, which frequently portray differently abled women as helpless and reliant on others, contribute to the perpetuation of this stereotype. But, nothing could be further from the truth. Differently abled women are resilient, brilliant, resourceful and independent. We must be in order to effectively navigate a world that often isn't designed for us.

That we are uninterested in romance or sexuality is another stereotype that plagues differently abled. Reinforcing the belief that warriors and persons who are differently abled are not completely human, which is detrimental in addition to being incorrect. We can feel love, intimacy and pleasure just like everyone else. Flowers and chocolates excites us too, duh! We deserve to be treated with respect and decency in our relationships as well as to have fulfilling romantic and sexual lives.

That we are a burden on society and our families is another another stereotype that affects warriors and differently abled women. Highly misleading as well as cruel. Differently abled individuals have the same right as everyone else to live full and meaningful lives. Like everyone else, we should have access to healthcare, work and education. And when we are given the tools and opportunities to succeed, we can contribute to society in valuable and meaningful ways. Today there have been some advancements in ensuring equal access in education and healthcare, but we are far from achieving equal opportunities and accesses in many ways. Stigma against warriors is extensive and lack of awareness about rare diseases fuels harmful stereotypes. Living with Scleroderma, I've faced my fair share of struggles and challenges. But I've also found strength and resilience in the community of warriors that I belong to and I'm here to tell you that differently abled women are capable of achieving amazing things.

So how can we challenge these stereotypes and embrace equality for differently abled women? It starts with education and awareness. We need to raise awareness about rare autoimmune and chronic diseases and disabilities and to challenge the stereotypes and misconceptions that surround them. We need to recognise that differently abled people have the same rights and aspirations as everyone else and that we should not be defined by our disabilities or conditions!

We also need to advocate for ourselves and for each other. We need to demand access to education, employment and healthcare, and to hold our governments and institutions accountable for ensuring that these rights are upheld. We need to support each other in our personal and professional lives, and to create communities where differently abled women can thrive and succeed.

The Farah Foundation is a notable organisation that envisions a world where people living with chronic and autoimmune diseases can thrive with independence and dignity. Their mission is to transform this vision into a reality by advocating and promoting awareness of these conditions, as well as developing and implementing impartial policies on a global scale. At the heart of their work lies The Farah Foundation Warrior Community, which provides a supportive and secure space for warriors to share their experiences, connect with others who understand their struggles and exchange valuable resources. By fostering a sense of community and empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being, The Farah Foundation is making a significant difference in the lives of those living with autoimmune and chronic illnesses.

Finally, we need to celebrate the achievements and resilience of differently abled women and warriors to recognise the valuable contributions that we make to society. We need to challenge the notion that differently abled people and warriors are a burden and instead recognise that we are an integral part of the diverse tapestry of humanity.

So on this International Women's Day, let's embrace equality and challenge the stereotypes that hold us back. Let's celebrate the achievements and resilience of differently abled women and warriors, and let's work together to create a more inclusive and accessible world for all. As I've learned through my own journey, the challenges we face can be overcome with determination, support and advocacy. We must recognise and address the injustices and barriers that limit our opportunities and experiences, but also celebrate our unique abilities and contributions to society.

Being differently abled and living with a rare disease is not a source of shame or pity, but a source of strength and diversity. So let us stand together, as women and as advocates of rights for differently abled individuals, and continue to push for a world where every individual is valued and empowered, regardless of their abilities.

Let’s celebrate the strength and diversity that differently abled women bring to the table.

Happy International Women's Day!

Take care and keep being wonderful!

Until the next feed, please share this newsletter with your audience.

Enthusiastically,

Farah Khaleck