Some Reflections Around The Influence Of Disability In A Changing World

Since the recent passing of Judy Heumann, the iconic Disability Rights activist, I have spent much time contemplating the very notion of change itself. Change is inevitable yet within the arc of the disability narrative we have seen profound transformations happening over years starting with civil rights to the evolution of business, representation, and a revolution through a broad cultural zeitgeist that is redefining our understanding of the disability experience.

It is important to be mindful of change as it is happening and think about what that change says about who we are and whom we aspire to be. As the digital revolution is democratizing the way people can communicate, it also allows for new opportunities across the business ecosystem highlighting the need for accessibility, and the value proposition that this sector can offer millions of people. Now more than ever we are hearing and seeing communities of people with disabilities that were once marginalized play a critical role in the ongoing development of a content-creator ecosystem. This advancement alone is singularly driving change and allowing for a multitude of voices across the disability community to have a level of self-expression never seen before.

The ripple effect of this change has also been evident in various arenas of representation. One example is the growth of the adaptive fashion industry that has exploded over the past several years. From the catwalks of New York to London and beyond we are seeing a variety of organizations from The Runway of Dreams and brands like Unhidden take center stage. We are witnessing mainstream brands realize the economic value of this $400 billion market makes good business sense. Companies from, Tommy Hilfiger, Kohls, and Zappos Adaptive to numerous others are getting on board by expanding the palette of the consumer and highlighting the power of this adaptive revolution. This has been evident recently when British Vogue disclosed their May 2023 cover for their new series titled “Reframing Fashion: Dynamic, Daring and Disabled” featuring activist Sinéad Burke, actor Selma Blair, sign language performer Justina Miles and the models Aaron Rose Philip and Ellie Goldstein. These undertakings once again emphasize the continued power of change happening across the disability landscape.

Another element of change that we have witnessed is the recent embrace of more authentic disability stories across the silver screen. From Oscar-winning films like CODA to Peanut Butter Falcon to television series like Breaking Bad and Apple TV’s Best Foot Forward. Each has recognized not only the value of genuine storytelling but have actors with disabilities in those roles.

As the veil of silence is uncovered and the disability narrative is elevated, we are seeing many high-profile celebrities take on the mantle of being champions for disability issues. From actress Christina Applegate, Lewis Capaldi, Billie Eilish, and various others there is an outpouring of recognition that this is part of who they are, and this expression is helping to redefine a new perspective of disability in a rapidly shifting world.

We must make room for change and take note of the significance it has in our lives. The disability experience is primed for change and now is the moment to see how we can push these values across business, culture, and innovation as key touchpoints for a shared vision of the future.