Blog: Celebrating Disability History Month as a disabled student

Written by Olivia Bailey

What Disability History Month means to me

Disability History Month matters to me as a disabled student as it sheds light on the ongoing battle for equality and inclusion for disabled people like me. It is a time to acknowledge both the struggles and successes of disabled individuals and serves as a reminder of the resilient community that I am a part of.

For me, this involves reflecting on the work I have done as a Student EDI Ambassador to try and improve the experiences of disabled students at University. It is empowering to be part of a network of accessibility advocates and play my role in a bigger movement towards greater disability equality and inclusion, especially in the workplace.

This year’s theme – Disability, Livelihood and Employment

This year’s theme is ‘Disability, Livelihood, and Employment’. This is an important topic to raise awareness of as disabled individuals still face many barriers in accessing employment, including workplace discrimination, lack of reasonable adjustments and biases. Improving accessibility and fostering inclusive workplace cultures help provide equal opportunities and lead to the benefits of a diverse workforce. For example, the innovation and creativity which comes from the diversity of thought brought by a wide range of different people working together.

Disability History Month events this year will provide insight into the factors influencing the employment of disabled individuals and illustrate how workplace equality can be improved moving forward.

Old Joe lighting up purple

To mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Tuesday 3 December during Disability History Month, Old Joe will be lit up purple. The colour purple has increasingly been used to represent disability as it is associated with dignity, respect and empowerment. The light up conveys a sense of unity and solidarity, reminding us that we need to stand together to support disability inclusion.

Get involved

The university is hosting many great events exploring this years theme. Check out the full programme.