It takes a village to cultivate authentic disability representation for the public. The media plays a significant role in forming the public’s perception; hence, media creators must be informed and educated about depicting persons with disabilities in different mediums.
Photo by: Alev Takil
People with disabilities are noted to discover their highest potential as they overcome emotional journeys through personal adversity. The contributions of those notable individuals with disabilities in the media have been instrumental in fostering the public’s understanding of disability. As such, embracing the inclusion of people with disabilities in the entertainment world should be more than just ticking a box. It requires an ongoing dedication and willingness to learn from all individuals involved.
These days, our society is brimming with talks, protests, and movements about diversity, equity, and inclusion. It is unfortunate to know that disability representation lags behind another marginalized group in society. For us to create a more holistic, inclusive, and loving society, stereotypical depictions of disability must be eradicated. The media has a significant responsibility to contribute to this process.
Defining Authentic Disability Representation
The media can serve as a powerful tool for societal change, especially in terms of diversity and inclusion. If accurate and inclusive representation of disability is incorporated into various media formats, negative stereotypes and stigma can be dismantled. From a historical point of view, disability has suffered misrepresentation in multiple forms, but as society progresses, a positive evolution has been made. Demands for accurate portrayal of disability in media have grown exponentially, changing people’s attitudes and awareness.
Authentic disability representation involves portraying disability consistently across all forms of media, communication, and consumer channels. It means depicting disability in various experiences to reflect its prevalence in society. When authentic representation is achieved, it validates disabled individuals, acknowledges their existence and contributions, and ultimately fosters a sense of belonging and peace for all.
Common Stereotypes of Persons with Disabilities in Media
Representation may appear insignificant to non-marginalized individuals. Without witnessing the inclusion of disabled people in a particular space, it becomes effortless to assume that they do not belong there. Also, we have to be aware of the common stereotypes used to portray people with disabilities for us to break barriers and promote authentic representation of disability. These stereotypes can be positive or negative, but they are often inaccurate.
The following are some of the common stereotypes of persons with disabilities in the media.
1. “Object of Pity” Trope
This portrays disabled people solely as inspiration icons for non-disabled individuals, reducing their experiences as motivational tools while ignoring their complex needs and challenges. It is also called “inspiration porn.”
2. The Victim
Portraying disabled persons as pitiful and helpless characters is a common scenario in many media formats. In such cases, persons with disabilities are described as sufferers. Show creators use them to gain sympathy from the viewers.
3. The Evil One
Many films and television series associate disabilities with evil or sinister things. This includes portraying characters with physical disabilities as the villains of the story.
4. Forever Innocent
This is sometimes called “eternal innocence.” It happens when characters with disabilities are given a childlike mentality.
5. Dependents
Frequent portrayals of individuals with disabilities as inherently incapable create misunderstandings about their independence and abilities. These representations not only distort public understanding but also affect the confidence and social identity of those with disabilities.
Photo by: Romain Virtuel
Positive Portrayal of Disability
Media creators must gear away from stereotypes and embrace the complexity of disability. Hiring actors with disabilities adds authenticity to the portrayal of disabled people in media. In summary, we still have a long way to go regarding achieving a positive portrayal of disability in all forms of media, but progress has been evident.
Creators are now more sensitive to the lives of disabled persons by engaging with the disability community and learning about their needs. In addition, they are also more open to feedback, giving room for improvement. Reading books like “Born Blind: The Traumas and the Triumphs” by David Y. Block also helps. You can purchase it through this link.
The media’s role in authentic disability representation is undeniably essential. Still, it requires a collective effort from every person to reach a future where every voice is heard, and every existence matters.