Historical Context
Ableism, like many forms of discrimination, has a long and complex history. It can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where individuals with disabilities were often viewed as burdens or even as omens of bad fortune. In the Middle Ages, people with disabilities were frequently marginalized and considered incapable of participating in society. The advent of the Industrial Revolution brought new challenges for those with disabilities, as they were often excluded from the workforce due to physical limitations. Read More...
In the early United States, individuals with disabilities were often subjected to various forms of discrimination, including institutionalization, segregation, and mistreatment. The first public institution for individuals with disabilities in the United States, was known as the Pennsylvania Hospital, which was established in 1751. It primarily housed individuals with mental health and intellectual disabilities. This marked the beginning of a trend where people with disabilities were often placed in asylums and institutions, a practice that continued well into the 20th century. Ableism was also reinforced during the Eugenics movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which sought to promote selective breeding to eliminate “undesirable” and “unusual” traits including disabilities.
WHAT ARE PEOPLE DOING?
Ableism has seen significant progress over time due to changing societal attitudes, legal reforms, and efforts of advocacy groups and individuals committed to promoting inclusion and equal rights for people with disabilities.
The passage of laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 in the United States, along with similar legislation in other countries, has played a crucial role in reducing discrimination. These laws mandate equal access, reasonable accommodations, and protection against disability-based discrimination in various aspects of life, including employment, education, public services, and transportation. Another effort was accessibility and developing ways to make public places more accessible for all. The introduction and development of ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and assistive technologies have made it easier for people with disabilities to participate in everyday activities.