EP05: Disability Advocacy

In this insightful episode of 'FARSIGHT Chats,' guest host Eric Harris with guests Elizabeth Campos, Kenna Chic, Dr. Gabrielle Ficchi, delve into Disability Advocacy . The discussion centers on societal biases, intersectionality, and the necessity for inclusive policies impacting the Disabled community. Personal insights from the guests highlight misconceptions about disabilities and emphasize advocacy's role in education and workplaces. This episode stresses the importance of comprehensive allyship, addressing visible and invisible disabilities, and recognizing privilege. Encouraging schools and corporations to consult with organizations led by disabled individuals, the conversation seeks to address and rectify microaggressions. It calls for ongoing dialogues, urging all listeners—especially non-disabled ones—to reflect on their perspectives.

The key topics covered include:

• Disability Awareness: Many disabilities, both visible and invisible, are misunderstood. The episode addresses the stereotypes and biases that exist, such as the assumption that disabilities are primarily physical or visible.
• Workplace Challenges: The conversation highlights the lack of advocacy and accommodations for people with disabilities, particularly around mental health, pay-equity, and workplace inclusion.
• Intersectionality: The speakers emphasize the intersections between disability and other
• identities such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status. These compounded challenges often lead to additional discrimination.
• Advocacy and Education: The need for policies that ensure inclusivity in education and employment is stressed, along with the importance of allies in creating accessible environments.
• Language: A significant part of the conversation focuses on the language used to describe disabilities, with an emphasis on eliminating outdated, offensive terms and embracing identity-affirming language.

00:00 Introduction to Farsight Chats

00:27 Exploring Disability Advocacy

02:26 Meet the Guest Host: Eric Harris

04:37 Guest Introductions: Kenna Chick

05:37 Guest Introductions: Dr. Gabrielle Ficchi

06:50 Guest Introductions: Liz Campos

09:46 Understanding Disability: Perspectives and Misconceptions

15:27 The Power of Terminology in Disability Advocacy

26:25 Advocacy and Education for Students with Disabilities

40:55 Advocating for Yourself and Knowing Your Rights

42:05 Disclosing Disabilities in Employment

44:29 Finding Community and Support

45:35 Personal Stories and Experiences

48:51 Understanding Intersectionality

55:01 Mental Health and Cultural Barriers

01:03:58 The Impact of COVID-19 on Disabled Communities

01:10:12 The Role of Allies and Advocacy

01:23:26 Final Thoughts and Resources

Resources:

ILRU https://www.ilru.org/

MAX AND THE MAGIC PILL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcHu-UTVPKI 

Watch Crip Camp on Netflix

Disability Rights CA - https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/

Vision Forward - https://vision-forward.org/

Connect with our guests:

• Elizabeth "Liz" Campos | Orientation and Mobility Instructor NOMC, Society For The Blind
• Kenna Chic | Disability Rights Advocate
• Dr. Gabrielle Ficchi | Therapist and Disability Advocate
• Guest host, Eric Harris | Director of Public Policy, Disability Rights California

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