#DisabilityRepresentation

[goblinratcreacher]

Was thinking about conjoined twin reptiles lately, and it made me think about how some of my fictional species might be affected by being born/hatched with body differences. Here are some examples of how one of my sophonts, Thitherians, might appear if they hatch as conjoined twins. Obviously, they vary based on what stage of development they began to separate. I didn't include it the physical drawing, but the later separation pair (pictured in the second image) would likely have similar balance/posture issues as the "two headed" pair in the first image, and thus would likely benefit from a similar mobility aid. The middle pair of fused legs may also be weakened, depending on their specific anatomy, and so they may also benefit from a or a pair of custom braces for added support. (Note, the mobility aid pictured in the first image on the left is still being developed and has changed to have 3 wheels since I drew it here several days ago.)

[futuristicvoyageexile]

Breaking Barriers: Living Boldly with a Physical Disability

Let’s talk truth for a minute — living with a physical disability isn’t about “overcoming” anything. It’s about adapting, thriving, and owning your strength. Society often underestimates what we can do, but here we are — working, loving, creating, and inspiring on our own terms.

🔥 Confidence Isn’t a Privilege. It’s a Right.

From navigating public spaces to dealing with stereotypes, the world isn’t always designed for us. But confidence? That comes from within. And sometimes, it comes from taking control of how we care for ourselves, inside and out.

That’s why I personally found platforms like Tretino.com empowering — not just because it’s a skincare brand, but because it gives everyone access to medical-grade skincare without the pressure of in-person clinics, which can be physically inaccessible or overwhelming.

Skincare may seem small, but when you’ve been through surgeries, therapies, or mobility challenges, feeling good in your skin matters. It’s part of mental health, and no one talks about that enough.

🎗️ Disability Is Not Invisibility

Social media has given us a louder voice than ever. Creators like @wheelchair_rapunzel and @aaron.philip are proving that disability is diverse, fashionable, outspoken, and unapologetically present in every space — from beauty to business.

And honestly? More brands need to catch up. It’s not about inspiration porn. It’s about representation, access, and dignity.

��� Tools That Empower

Here are a few platforms making life better — and more accessible — for the disabled community:

🛍️ Tretino.com – Accessible, dermatology-backed skincare for all skin types. Zero need to travel for your prescription.

🧠 AbleFinder – A social network for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities.

💼 Inclov – Inclusive matchmaking platform with features for people with disabilities.

🏠 RampMyCity – Making urban spaces wheelchair-friendly, one ramp at a time.

🧡 Remember This:

You are not broken. The system might be. You don’t need to “prove” your worth. You already have it. And your body, however it moves or rests — is valid and powerful.

📣 Let’s normalize disability not just in awareness months, but every day. Follow for more content, stories, accessibility hacks, and resources. 🌍 Tag someone who needs to read this. 💌

[reel-intelligence-brief]

🧞‍♀️ AI News Brief 🧞‍♀️: AI's Impact on Disability Inclusion in Hollywood

[filmfanaticshub]

'Wicked' Star Marissa Bode Speaks Out Against Ableist Comments on Her Character

Actress Marissa Bode is calling for more kindness after facing hurtful ableist comments on social media regarding her portrayal of Nessarose in Wicked. In a heartfelt TikTok video posted on Saturday, Bode, who uses a wheelchair, shared her experience of receiving "gross and harmful" remarks since the film’s release.

Bode plays Elphaba's (Cynthia Erivo) sister, Nessarose, whose complicated relationship with Elphaba has sparked debates among viewers. While the film differs slightly from the musical, Bode’s performance has drawn particular attention, especially regarding her character's disability.

Although Bode emphasized that it's perfectly fine to dislike a fictional character, she expressed discomfort with the aggressive comments focused on Nessarose’s disability. “Disability is not fictional,” she stated, adding that jokes about her character’s inability to walk or harmful comments such as “push Nessa out of her wheelchair” are deeply upsetting.

Bode acknowledged that many of these comments come from ignorance but stressed the importance of standing up against such harmful behavior, particularly for the sake of younger individuals who may be affected by these words. She reminded followers of the importance of kindness and understanding, invoking Wicked’s core lesson about empathy.

"Please be kind," Bode urged, adding, "One of the major themes within Wicked is having the ability to listen and understand one another, and I hope many of you can carry that with you."

[lizellyn]

Dear Authors, Show some respect

Dear Authors, Please refrain from writing about disabilities unless you have direct experience or have invested substantial effort into thorough research. What may seem like a simple characteristic often carries profound significance. It is very different than assigning eye or hair color to a character. Disabilities are not mere plot devices to enhance book sales or fill a category; they are…

[dp-ho]

Why are there no more TV commercials for toddlers with disabilities?

The Shift in Representation: Why We See Fewer TV Commercials Featuring Toddlers with Disabilities

The landscape of television advertising, particularly for products aimed at children, has undergone significant changes over the past few decades. While commercials featuring toddlers with disabilities were once more prevalent, their presence has become less frequent. This shift reflects a broader societal evolution in representation and inclusivity. Let's explore some possible reasons behind this decline:

1. Moving Beyond Inspiration:

Shifting Focus: Early commercials featuring children with disabilities often leaned heavily on the "inspirational" narrative. The focus was on overcoming challenges, with the product playing a secondary role in aiding this triumph. This approach, while well-intentioned, could be seen as patronizing and fail to resonate with viewers who desired a more nuanced portrayal.

Authentic Representation: There's a growing emphasis on authentic representation in advertising. Audiences expect to see children with disabilities simply being children – playing, laughing, and enjoying their lives – instead of solely defined by their disability.

2. Targeting the "Real" Decision-Makers:

Parental Influence: Decisions about children's products are often made by parents or caregivers. Advertisers are increasingly targeting this demographic directly. Instead of focusing solely on the child's experience, commercials might highlight how the product benefits both the child and the caregiver, offering solutions to real-life challenges parents face.

Focus on Product Functionality: Modern commercials tend to take a more product-centric approach. The emphasis is on showcasing the features and benefits of the product in a clear and engaging way. This allows parents to assess how the product can specifically address their child's needs, regardless of ability.

3. The Rise of Social Media and Targeted Advertising:

Micro-Targeting: The rise of social media and targeted advertising allows companies to tailor messages to specific demographics. Instead of relying on mass-market television commercials, companies can reach niche audiences (including parents of children with disabilities) through online platforms and create more relevant, targeted messaging.

There are a few reasons why you might not see as many TV commercials featuring toddlers with disabilities:

Shifting Advertising Strategies: Advertising has moved heavily online, with targeted social media campaigns often replacing traditional TV commercials.

Focus on Authenticity: Modern marketing might favor featuring real families in their everyday moments, potentially showcasing disability in a more natural way.

Evolving Representation: The emphasis might have shifted towards inclusive casting across various media, where disability becomes a part of the character rather than the sole focus of the advertisement.

 

Influencer Marketing: Influencer marketing, where trusted individuals promote products online, has gained traction. Parents of children with disabilities might be sought out to showcase how a product works within their everyday lives, offering a more relatable and authentic perspective.

The Future of Representation:

Moving Towards Inclusion: The decline of commercials featuring toddlers with disabilities purely for "inspirational" purposes doesn't translate to a lack of inclusion. Instead, it signifies a shift towards more genuine and diverse portrayals.

Inclusion as the Norm: The goal is for inclusivity to become the norm, where children with disabilities are naturally represented in advertising alongside their peers without disabilities. This reflects the reality of classrooms, playgrounds, and families everywhere.

Ultimately, the advertising landscape continues to evolve. While television commercials featuring toddlers with disabilities might be less frequent, the broader conversation about representation and inclusivity remains ongoing. The goal is to create a world where all children see themselves reflected in the media they consume, celebrating individuality and the value of every member of society.

[carloswritesooks]

🩷 Barbie Gets Real: The Type 1 Diabetes Doll That’s Changing the Game

By Carlos Davila Medina In a world that often tells kids to hide their differences, Barbie just made a powerful move — introducing her first doll with Type 1 diabetes. Complete with a visible glucose monitor and medical accessories, this isn’t just a toy. It’s a message. A message that says: “You are seen. You are included.” 🩸 Why This Matters For children living with Type 1 diabetes, every…

[brandyschillace]

Hey everyone! I’m featured in this @washingtonpost.com story!! For FRAMED WOMEN and #autism #disabilityrepresentation

Quoting me in the article;

“Women, even at a very early age, are taught to subjugate their needs in favor of others. They are taught to ‘behave’ and to take up less space, to not be a burden but to help support others — the men and boys or other children in their lives,” Schillace said in an interview. “What this means for autistic girls is that they learn to mask early, to hide their true natures and to ‘not be a problem.’”

In creating Jo, Schillace said she aimed to create a protagonist who “isn’t treated like a savant, and her autism — though present — does not become the most interesting thing about her. … Jo isn’t the mystery; she helps to solve one. Likewise, I (and other autistic women) are not enigmas. We are people, fellow human beings, with intrinsic value.”

https://www.washingtonpost.com/books/2024/04/01/autistic-women-mystery-fiction/

[alittlebitbethany]

Hi everybody I’ve posted a new video to my YouTube channel a review of #barbiefashionistas 189. Please check it out it would mean a lot to me. Image Description: a screenshot of a YouTube video featuring a photo of a #barbiedoll with #pinkhair and a purple #prostheticleg standing in front of a door. The text reads BC’s Doll Place: Barbie Fashionistas 189 Review. #barbiefashionista #representationmatters #disabilityrepresentation #barbie #barbiedolls #barbiecollector #dollphotography #dollcollector #dollcollecting #barbiefashion #barbiegram #mattel #dolls

[models-direct]

The modelling industry is evolving—and it’s about time. For too long, the idea of who could be a model was limited. Today, we’re seeing that change in real time. Representation matters, and at Models Direct, we’ve always believed in showcasing real people from every walk of life. Diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s our baseline. We’re proud to support and promote talent of all ethnicities. From billboards to digital campaigns, the faces of modelling are finally reflecting the world we live in. Pooja Mur, Winnie Harlow and Fernanda Ly have each helped redefine what’s possible. Age diversity is another powerful shift. Mature models like Iman and Carmen Dell’Orefice are turning heads and proving that experience and confidence belong on every runway. The body positivity movement has also taken hold—and we’re here for it. The industry is embracing all shapes and sizes. It’s about confidence, comfort, and self-acceptance. Just ask trailblazers like Ashley Graham and Tess Holliday. Then there’s the incredible rise of models with disabilities. Representation here is breaking barriers. Models like Ellie Goldstein and Jamie Brewer are not only being seen—they’re being celebrated. The message is clear: everyone deserves a place in front of the camera. Watch our full video to learn more about how the industry is changing for the better: https://youtu.be/3_E5sggUW3I?si=_5yQFf2oBb5ITuLr #ModelsDirect #DiversityInModelling #BodyPositivity #InclusiveModelling #RealPeopleRealModels #MatureModels #DisabilityRepresentation #EthnicDiversity #SizeInclusive #RepresentationMatters #ModellingAgencyUK #ModelLife #BreakTheMould #BeautyInAllForms #ModellingIndustryChange

[limestoner]

My vapor trail/atomic level movement/aura/etc. is pitching wildly back and forth.

By the time I got back here I forgot what I wanted to say. But here it maybe is.

My hobbies: playing Yahtzee, making hypothetical carts*, 90s-00s music, looking at sparkly/undulating/trippy imagery#, and+ documenting what I think about to time travel back

What is it? I don’t know. And while I’m curious to know, I like being able to wonder. I see a dragon regurgitating lava that will become the fabric of the universe

*Online shopping 🛒 from delivery places and imagining what I would order from there to make the perfect meal. Perform cost analysis.

And then go whip up something easy in the kitchen. Putting flavor on a conveyance. Dressing on the salad, sauce on the pizza, veg and queso on a tortilla. “Another words,” I try to assemble food like this:

Healthy vs Unhealthy? Food and Convehance.

I wanted to put bhst mat thoughts on here, and not a GT bunt about me as a person. But after awhile, personal details can be inferred from the combined many many many thoughts.

#i don’t love that ai draws from content without creators’ permission, but I am intrigued by some of the bias societal that is revealed in what ai assembles.

Jeremy says it way better than I ever could.

But my favorite thing with ai is the wrongness. Like it looks okay at first globe but the more you look the more it goes into it semble. Wow, kind of like that sentence. I meant it looked okay at first glance (sudden jump to later- forgot what it was and came right back) and then I come back) but the closer you look you fall down the rabbit hole of WTF.

I was trying to find a picture of a trippy rabbit fractal hole but got this. It reminds me of a prawn in the ocean with all the legs. They’re like undersea bugs. Crustaceous.I nickname this picture

“Dance of the Prawns Setting up Folding Chairs”

I can hear a conversation outside. They sound way closer than they look from here.

I hear a doorbell. I hear geese. No wait, that’s Rowan snoring.

+And also that by the time I remember that I was originally making what ifs, the restaurants are all closed and I go to the kitchen to assemble some food like usual. [See how it all comes back around!]

Listened to this and had to looo up the article because

Me: “I don’t know how Glrm is spelled, but looking at it makes it funnier.”

https://youtu.be/A6atDT3cmrs?si=7AV1TB4yCMa1cmbk

[mizamour]

This book is so gorgeous in its illustrations, I was drawn to it immediately - and then its story, about a brilliant Deaf percussionist? Breathtaking. Evelyn Glennie loved music since early childhood, but when she began losing her hearing at age 10, doctors and teachers alike told her she would never be a musician. But Evelyn knew better. She kept training, and when she discovered percussion, her musical ability truly blossomed. She was able to feel the vibrations of the drum with her whole body, an ability which she honed until she could tune an instrument through its vibrations alone. Despite obstacles created by ableism, she persevered to become the first person to achieve success as a solo percussionist, and the winner of over a hundred musical awards. She says "My career and my life have been about listening, in the deepest possible sense." This beautiful biography's narrative illustrates the truth of the social model of disability (disabilities are not inherently obstacles, but are only made so by society's refusal to accommodate them) and highlights a story that deserves to be told. Evelyn's agency throughout her life, despite others' condemning expectations, is a wonderful example to kids not only to strive towards their dreams, but also to challenge authority when it limits their brilliance. I'll definitely be recommending this bio to our amazing music teachers! #evelynglennie #percussion #musicians #picturebooks #picturebookstagram #picturebooksofinstagram #librariansofinstagram #schoollibrarian #musiceducation #musicteachers #teachersofInstagram #teachersfollowteachers #librariansfollowlibrarians #deaf #disabledvoices #disabilitypride #disabilityrepresentation https://www.instagram.com/p/CkDwBMPObnN/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[hollymbryan]

🧜🏻‍♀️ BOOK CLUB MINI REVIEW 🧜🏻‍♀️😩 BREATHE AND COUNT BACK FROM TEN by @nataliasylv was the July read for the #chronicallyiconicbookclub and man, WHAT A READ! We had the absolute best discussion, and every single one of us (some who have chronic illness/pain or disabilities, and some who don't) saw something of ourselves and our experiences in it. Vero is a child of Peruvian immigrants who was born with hip dysplasia. This means she has lived with multiple surgeries and tons of pain in her life. Her parents sacrificed and struggled to bring her and her sister to America (Florida) for better healthcare and other opportunities. She loves to swim and has a dream to be in the show at Mermaid Cove near where she lives, a dream of which her parents do not approve (look closely at Vero's shadow on the cover and you'll see 🧜🏻‍♀️!). This book is all about growing up and out of the boxes into which our parents sometimes want to put us, finding our own way and speaking up with our authentic voices, exploring sexuality and first love, living as an immigrant but also an American and straddling the two worlds, AND dealing with chronic pain and disability and all that entails (the doctors visits Vero had were so very familiar to many of us in the group). I loved this book so much, and I flagged so many quotes and passages that spoke to me (you can swipe to see one of them). I cannot recommend this book highly enough -- it will absolutely make my top ten reads of the year, if not top five. I want *everyone* to pick this one up! If you do, definitely let me know your thoughts. RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 🧜🏻‍♀️ 🧜🏻‍♀️ 🧜🏻‍♀️ #breatheandcountbackfromten #nataliasylvester #yaliteraturejunkie #yaliterature #yalit #yalovin #yalove #disabilityreads #disability #disabilityawareness #disabilityrepresentation #hipdysplasia #hipdysplasiaawareness #chronicpain #chronicallyiconic #bookclubread #bookclub #buddyreads #buddyread #bookstagrammers #bookstagramit #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookreviewers #bookreview #bookreviewblogger #bookreviewersofinstagram #booktography #BookKeepingBlog https://www.instagram.com/p/ChS3byBPsXu/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[fantasywriter221b]

Hey guys, I need help

In the new book I am planning, I want to be as inclusive as I can possibly be. Therefore, I want to include some disability representation. 

What disabilities would you suggest and what tips would you give me to present this/these character/s respectfully?

[wheelchairwhit]

Wanting to share your story? I'm looking for guests to be on Spastic Chatter! Spastic Chatter is a platform meant to feature stories from those in the Cerebral Palsy community. I get together weekly with individuals with CP (Like Myself) to feature their stories and have a kind of uncensored chat if you will about what it’s really like to have this type of disability. Check out the 64 episodes so far here ---> https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNvT5RjStoEXvgvn-xHwj_o8AqknLIiAd To be a guest, fill out this form here ---> https://forms.gle/JcHMu13aKjbH87Ef6 or comment below! - #CerebralPalsy #Disability #Disabled #Podcast #SpasticChatter #DisabilityVisibility #DisabilityRepresentation #RepresentationMatters #DisabledAndProud #DisabilityAdvocate #DisabilityPride https://www.instagram.com/p/CQq7z1cp7kM/?utm_medium=tumblr

[managedbybooks]

Hey all! It’s been awhile since I posted consistently and I’m sorry for that. Life has been very hectic and scary this past year, especially with the recent wild fires on the West Coast where I live. I’m still reading even if I’m not posting, though! Right now, I’m about halfway through Get A Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert and I love it so far! Chronic pain and fibromyalgia are somethings that run in my family and I’ve been learning how to cope with my chronic pain for a long time. It’s so nice to see representation like this that’s actually fairly accurate to what I and my family experience (not everyone has the same symptoms or side effects) while also making Chloe a strong person who knows herself and her body. Many books with disability rep that I’ve read generally make the person seem helpless or unable to take care of themselves and it just makes me so happy to be able to feel seen as someone who *can* take care of myself and my pain. Well, that’s enough about that! How have you all been during this pandemic? If you’re in an area suffering from natural disaster like I am, I hope you and your loved ones are safe and well! • • What sort of representation of yourself and your experiences do you want to see more of in the books you read? Do you have some favorites? Let me know! • • #bookish #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookishpost #bookstabuddies📚 #getalifechloebrown #taliahibbert #disabilityrepresentation #queerbookstagrammer #nonbinarybookstagrammer (at Corvallis, Oregon) https://www.instagram.com/p/CFac2EIgIsP/?igshid=11sim037b4bty