LibraryScenariosWhy people assume cognitive disability from physical differences
Scenario

Why people assume cognitive disability from physical differences

I have cerebral palsy and when I try to order coffee the barista always looks past me to whoever I am with, assuming I cannot speak for myself.

Hypatia
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More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

The reduction of complex humanity to a single visible trait creates a social invisibility that is more disabling than the original condition.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Disability & Accessibility?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.