By giving folx with disabilities the control of their narratives, whether it be within the walls of language that currently exist or ones yet to be socially recognized, it continues the evolution of language — and more empathy for fluid expressions of identity.
Research suggests American Sign Language may be the third most-used language in the United States. Yet, UW-Madison offers only one course on sign language — despite its own emphasis of “the study of languages, literatures and cultures.”
For college students, the effects of non-apparent disabilities — like depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism and other health related illnesses — transcend simply managing symptoms.
The criminalization of people with disabilities, people of color and people of color with disabilities are some of the most heinous examples of systemic discrimination.