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Caution

The disabled community is already considered a "vulnerable" group of people, and unfortunately there are individuals out there that only want to use the community's position to take further advantage of its members. This is a section dedicated to explaining who some of those dangerous groups are and what effect they have on disabled folks.

Infantilization

  • Groups and people that infantilize those with disabilities are more likely to see or treat them as real people. It is also a common trope used in the representation of disabled people that reduces their independence.

Super-Crip

  • Another common trope used to try and represent disabled people in a more positive light. However, this often makes it so disabled people need to achieve something great with their lives, instead of just being able to live like any other person.​

Inspiration Porn

  • ​A third common trope used in attempts at disability representation that is very similar to that of the "super-crip". This assumes that disabled people should be revered just for existing, and that their existence is inherently a struggle. Mostly makes non-disabled people feel better about their lives in comparison.

Ableism

  • The most wide-spread harm to disabled people. This is the discrimination of disabled people in various aspects of life. It does not have to be overt, and more often comes in harder to recognize forms through speech, actions, and opinions.​

Things to Look Out For

Autism Speaks & The Puzzle Piece

  • A group that claims to provide support for the autistic community, but spreads harmful stereotypes and incorrect information about autism. They have also been known to mis-use donated funds and not take into account any views of actually autistic people. They have branded with the puzzle piece to represent the "missing piece" of those with autism. Most prefer to use a rainbow infinity symbol instead.

"Common Sense" Eugenics

  • Eugenics are currently more recognized as a bad thing as they have been used to promote the erasure of various groups of people. However, "common sense" eugenics are still relatively accepted, and they specifically condone eugenics towards disabled people while trying to say that it is not eugenics. Specifically, the works of Peter Singer are influent and harmful.​

Institutionalization

  • Since the medical view of disability has come into prominence in society, many disabled people have ended up in initializations. Many of these places do not understand those with disabilities and cruelly mistreat those living in them. Instead, many disabled people would rather be able to live in their own homes, sparking the movement of "our homes, not their homes". 

Cure

  • Through many societal views of disability, the idea of a "cure" has been very prevalent. This assumes that all disabled people are waiting for their respective disabilities to be cured because their lives are inherently worse-off. While some disabled people do support a cure for their conditions, it should not be assumed for the majority.

Proceed With Caution

For comments, questions, concerns, etc., please contact kipfordisabilities@gmail.com

Website Last Updated: May 15th, 2025, 5:34PM EST

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