Critical Disability Studies - Understanding Allyship

2023

Addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have become central in implementing inclusive and socially responsible practices in rehabilitation education. Yet, the constructs of disability and d/Deaf identity and culture, as well as ableism and allyship are often overlooked, or approached from outdated philosophical approaches that pathologize disability and fail to prioritize the lived experiences, expertise, intersectionality, and self-identified needs of people with disabilities. A Critical Disability Studies framework may provide the background for understanding and responding to these issues through allyship. The purpose of this study was twofold: 1) To understand the lived experiences of ableism and allyship from faculty, staff, and students on University of Washington (UW) Campuses who identify as d/Deaf, disabled/with a disability, or as having a chronic health condition; and 2) to co-create an evidence-informed disability allyship training curriculum based on these experiences that includes customizable modules and tools for campus units within rehabilitation education and beyond.

Performing Research or Evaluation

Education & Early Intervention, Health-Related Activities

Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Legislators/Policy Makers

Racial or Ethnic Minorities

Single-County

N/A