Today, one of the biggest topics around equity and diversity is how people can be effective allies for their counterparts in marginalized communities. The importance of disability allies — that is, allies to people who have disabilities or identify as neurodiverse — is no less than other kinds of allies, yet society often overlooks this area of social advocacy. Being a supporter of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs) involves understanding, respect, and action.
Here’s how you can advocate for people with disabilities and be a strong ally for neurodiverse communities.
Educate Yourself
To be an effective ally, start by educating yourself about communities of people who have IDDs. Learn about the distinctions between and realities of life with various disabilities. In this regard, it’s important to learn as much about strengths and abilities as challenges and limitations. Keep in mind that much of the adversity neurodivergent people face has to do with how they are treated by society.
It’s also essential to familiarize yourself with the language around disabilities and neurodiversity. Here, it’s important to be aware of current social conversations around referring to an IDD as a disability versus a form of diversity, with different communities and organizations taking different approaches. When in doubt, it can be helpful to simply prioritize person-first terms such as “person with disabilities” or “neurodivergent people” rather than limiting or pejorative phrasing such as “disabled people.”
Communicate Effectively
Communicate clearly and directly with individuals who have IDDs. Use straightforward language, avoid jargon, and check for understanding without being patronizing. Encourage open communication to understand their needs and preferences.
Active listening is key. Pay attention to the experiences and perspectives of people with IDDs without interrupting. Validate their feelings, and acknowledge their experiences as valid and significant.
Advocate for Inclusion
Promote accessibility. Work to ensure environments are accessible to everyone. This includes physical spaces, digital platforms, and social settings. Advocate for necessary accommodations and modifications that can help individuals with IDDs participate fully.
Challenge stereotypes. Combat harmful misconceptions about IDDs by sharing accurate information and positive stories. Address prejudices and discriminatory practices when you encounter them, and support initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion.
Show Respect and Empathy
Respect individuality. Recognize that every person with an IDD is unique. Honor their autonomy, preferences, and uniqueness. Avoid making assumptions about their abilities or needs.
Support self-advocacy. Find ways to enable individuals with IDDs to speak for themselves and make their own decisions. This empowerment is crucial for fostering independence and respect in society.
Be Mindful of Your Actions
Amplify neurodivergent voices. Use your platform to amplify the voices of people with IDDs. Share their stories, achievements, and challenges to raise awareness and foster a more inclusive community.
Reflect and adjust. Regularly reflect on your behavior and attitudes. Seek feedback from individuals with IDDs, and be willing to make changes to better support them.
By following these steps, you can become a more effective ally to individuals with IDDs, fostering a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone.
Find Allyship With Progressive Lifestyles
Progressive Lifestyles, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Waterford, Michigan, and we have been in operation since 1983. Our mission is to provide supportive and caring residential opportunities for individuals with IDDs throughout Oakland County.
We support small, licensed adult foster care homes and private residences with community living supports, home help services, and private-duty nurses.
A primary focus of our organization is to interact with the individuals we support through the Culture of Gentleness Model. We seek to create a positive environment to help them feel safe and valued by maximizing praise, limiting demands, maintaining consistent structure, and reducing stress during transitions. Contact us today to learn more about living the Progressive Lifestyle!