3.06 UTHDC - UT History of Disability on Campus
Project Description:
The University of Texas at Austin has created a campus collaboration of researchers studying the histories of UT as it pertains to various communities via the Contextualization and Commemoration Initiative. My work specifically studies the history of disability on the UT at Austin campus up to the present day. The goals are:
1. Identify accessibility of the campus throughout its history
2. Document disabled student activism
3. Document the archival materials associated with disabled student inclusion (and exclusion), legal policies (such as Section 504 and the ADA), and the changing landscape of how disability was defined via policies on campus.
Texas has a long history of disability activism most notably represented by the work leading up to the signing of the ADA in 1990. This work has a murkier history on UT campus; an office specifically targeting support for disabled students was not established until 1978.
Much of the progress made can be directly tied to a student group called MIGHT! (Mobility Impaired Grappling Hurdles Together) from the early 1970s to early 1980s when they began working more in the community and launching the first ARCIL (A Resource Center for Independent Living) in Austin in 1979.
This work will highlight the grassroots activism necessary for change, predating landmark legislation such as Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Additionally, what a disabled student was conceptualized as on campus has changed over time.
Keyword(s):
Disability, UT Austin, Accessibility, Students
Core Function(s):
Performing Research or Evaluation, Developing & Disseminating Information, Continuing Education/Community Training
Area of Emphasis
Education & Early Intervention, Other - Cultural Diversity
Target Audience:
Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Community Trainees / Short term trainees, Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, Legislators/Policy Makers, General Public
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Other
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
