Media images of people with disabilities doing extraordinary things are often referred to as "inspirational pornography".
Finding inspiration in the world around us is a normal part of the human experience. We love stories of people overcoming obstacles, overcoming adversity, and coping with unique circumstances.
Some of these images, very common in the media, involve people with different abilities. We have all seen these stories or photos with inspirational captions such as: A colorful image of an amputated running on a runway quoting, "the only disability in life is not being positive."
So far, so good, but the problem with these images is that they are based on the idea that people with disabilities can do different things "despite" their disability and that they are used to motivate and inspire people with disabilities. otherwise. Australian comedian and human rights activist with disabilities Stella Young called these examples "inspirational pornography".
"When people say you are an inspiration, they say it as a compliment," she said in her speech at TED Talk 2014. "We have been sold this lie that disability makes you extraordinary and honestly, no. I want to I live in a world where we do not have such low expectations of people with different abilities that they are congratulated for getting out of bed and saying their names in the morning. "
Platforms like Instagram, Twitter and TikTok have grown, along with corporate sponsorships for athletes, models and influencers. Images of people with disabilities are more common than ever on social media, and that's fantastic.
But, we should also be aware of the fact that many brands use people with disabilities to promote their products, and this is a way to take advantage of their situations. Although not harmful in themselves, these images fail to portray the realities that many people with disabilities face on a daily basis - lack of access, most importantly.
Perhaps, beyond beautiful and inspiring advertising, the time has come to offer these people truly more dedication and, above all, investment, to make life easier.
Source: Psychology Today
