Promoting Inclusion, Advocating Accessibility, Educating Communities: The Role of a Disability Champion

When I started working in the disability sector after my book, “Blessed with Extraordinary” was published, I initially described myself as a disability advocate. However, as I grew in my understanding and experience, I realized that the term disability champion more accurately reflected the role I envisioned—one of actively supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities and promoting education and understanding in the communities where they live.

Disability Advocate vs. Champion

A disability advocate primarily helps individuals by supporting, guiding, and navigating legal, administrative, and social systems. They work directly with individuals to navigate legal processes, educate individuals about their rights, promote accessibility and inclusion, and help with discrimination on a case-by-case basis. 

In contrast, a disability champion works at the organizational or community level to promote inclusion and accessibility and raise awareness.  They speak, write, and educate on disability inclusion in communities.  This is my mission.

 Becoming a Disability Champion

 When my son was born with Down Syndrome in 1989, I never imagined the opportunity I would have to be a disability champion not only for him but his peers with Down Syndrome and other disabilities. By researching and connecting with others in the disability community and organizations that support them, I found the work I was passionate about.

In my role today as a disability champion, I advocate for the right to education for all, accessible transportation, meaningful employment, affordable and supported housing, and full inclusion and accessibility in all aspects of society.

I love speaking to organizations and conferences, writing and contributing articles, sharing disability resources, and educating individuals and communities on the benefits of inclusion and acceptance.

 My Favorite Hashtags

Although hashtags are somewhat out of favor, these three are a powerful and positive way to promote disability inclusion.

#disabilityisnotinability

-      A disability does not equate to being incapable, helpless, incompetent, or less valuable. People with disabilities have gifts and talents to share with the world like anyone else.

 #differentnotless

-      We are each different and unique. Those differences don’t make us less than anyone else; different abilities and skills bring about innovation.

 #notspecialneedshumanneeds

-      The term “special needs” was used early on to describe who was eligible for special education.  Today, that term is being replaced with “disability”. Disability self-advocates and others do not believe their needs are special; rather, they have the same basic human needs as anyone else.

 Individuals with disabilities want to be part of a vibrant community and world. Through education, understanding, respect, kindness, and breaking down barriers, we can experience positive change that benefits everyone.

Visit https://www.blessedwithextraordinary.com/ for resources, blogs, and the international bestseller, “Blessed with Extraordinary.”

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Linda Bonner is a disability champion and author of “Blessed with Extraordinary”, a book of support, resources, hope, and encouragement for families raising a child with Down Syndrome or another disability. It is her mission to equip families and communities with shared disability resources and education to promote advocacy locally and beyond.