Why media representation of disability matters.
There is a wider perspective on disability in the media as it is such a hot topic given that we have left out of so many discussions - Things like #Metoo, I can't remember a single disabled person being included in the conversation until Brittney Spears was able to end her abusive and controlling adult conservatorship. This has made me aware of other wider sociality issues that happen in the developed world. It has made me see that it can be improved in not only my life but in a wider context and I know that this will take a generational change to happen and in a society that is used to instant gratifications this will be a challenge.
Why On-Screen Representation Actually Matters | HuffPost Entertainment ( this more focuses on more marginalized groups however the same is true for people with disabilities)
The sad truth is if we don't see good representations, the message is that we don't matter from a storytelling perspective in Tv shows, movies, or books. When in fact our stories can serve as inspiration or teach a lesson to the viewer. People will often feed the stigma, so this is why having characters like Arty in Glee or Magnus in Shadowhunter, where their differences are noted but aren't the overused tropes. (disability/inspiration porn, family love-conquers-all, you can do anything if you try harder enough) Where these tropes can be harming to people with disabilities where it can feed into a perception that they can essentially live a 'Normal Life'
I will be adding to this list as well.
feel free to add your own in the comments below.
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