Disability is not a magical gift that grants the recipient extraordinary abilities. It is a condition that frequently creates barriers in a world not designed with us in mind. The true superpower lies in the ingenuity, perseverance, and resourcefulness that people with disabilities exhibit daily to overcome these barriers; any other characterization is merely inspiration p0rn.
When society fails to consider accessibility, it squarely places a burden on individuals with disabilities (sometimes referred to as the #DisabilityTax) to find their own solutions to have any chance of equal access. This might require someone with a disability to develop unique methods to perform everyday tasks, advocate for necessary accommodations, or educate others about the importance of inclusive design. Planning for real or anticipated systemic barriers requires:
Creativity: Finding unique solutions to everyday challenges.
Determination: Persisting despite obstacles and setbacks.
Self-awareness: Understanding one’s own needs and capabilities.
Time: Investing time in planning and problem-solving.
Energy: Using physical and mental energy to overcome barriers.
Advocacy: The ability to speak up and fight for necessary accommodations.Consider the example of navigating public spaces. Many buildings, sidewalks, and transportation systems are still not fully accessible. Even when they are, sometimes broken glass, ice, or water can convert an otherwise accessible path to something independently unusable. Wheelchair users must plan their routes meticulously, identifying entrances, elevators, and pathways that are usable at that moment. When faced with an unexpected obstacle, such as a broken elevator or a ramp blocked by snow, the next step is adapt or fail. This constant problem-solving is not a superpower bestowed by the disability, but a testament to our adaptability and resilience.
People with disabilities frequently advocate for change, pushing for policies and practices that promote greater accessibility and inclusion. This advocacy work is another form of problem-solving. It requires strategic thinking, effective communication, and persistence. Challenging existing norms is not easy.
It’s crucial to recognize that the ability to solve problems should not be romanticized or seen as a justification for maintaining the status quo. Instead, it underlines where society falls short and the urgent need for systemic change. Society must not rely on the extraordinary efforts of individuals to navigate an inaccessible world. Instead, society should be working towards striving to remove these barriers, creating equitable environments where no one is excluded.
I spend a lot of time and energy on problem-solving in my inaccessible world. Imagine what kinds of improvements people with disabilities would see if we could thrive in a genuinely inclusive society?
Alt: My disability is NOT a superpower. My superpower is my ability to solve problems when others create barriers by not including my disability.