When we look back over years past, whose achievements make it into the history books? There are important stories and contributions that have long been overlooked because the people responsible were part of a marginalised group.
But even well-known figures’ stories are sometimes incomplete when told through popular narratives. There are many famous historical figures who were disabled, but this part of their identity is often left out of discussions about their lives.
Disabled people’s historical contributions are often represented through the narrative of “overcoming the odds”. Many argue this can be objectifying or harmful. Instead, we should try to understand how their experiences of disability may have shaped their life, work or activism.
