Legal Definitions - ableism

Ableism refers to discrimination and social prejudice against people with disabilities. It involves treating individuals with disabilities as inferior, or disregarding their needs and rights, often by favoring the abilities and perspectives of non-disabled people.

Here are some examples to illustrate ableism:

• Example 1: Inaccessible Public Spaces

  A newly constructed public library features grand staircases at its entrance but lacks a visible ramp or elevator, making it difficult or impossible for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility aids to enter. The restrooms inside are also too narrow to accommodate a wheelchair.

  This illustrates ableism because the design of the building disregards the needs and rights of people with mobility disabilities, implicitly favoring able-bodied individuals by making the library inaccessible to a segment of the population.

• Example 2: Employment Bias

  During a job interview, a hiring manager expresses concern about a candidate's ability to perform the job duties because the candidate uses a prosthetic limb, even though the candidate has a strong resume, relevant experience, and the job does not physically require an able-bodied person. The manager then hires a less qualified able-bodied candidate.

  This demonstrates ableism as it involves prejudice and discrimination against a disabled person based on an unfounded assumption about their capabilities, rather than an objective assessment of their qualifications for the role.

• Example 3: Social Exclusion

  A group of friends regularly plans social gatherings at venues that are very loud, dimly lit, and crowded, without considering that one friend has sensory processing sensitivities that make such environments overwhelming and distressing for them. When the friend expresses discomfort, the others suggest they "just try to get used to it" rather than seeking an alternative venue.

  This exemplifies ableism by disregarding the specific needs of a disabled individual, prioritizing the comfort and preferences of the able-bodied majority and failing to make reasonable accommodations for inclusion.