The Inspiration Question: Disability, Achievement, and True Heroism

We’ve all seen the headlines, the social media posts, the stories that paint disabled individuals as “inspirational.”

The Inspiration Question: Disability, Achievement, and True Heroism

We’ve all seen the headlines, the social media posts, the stories that paint disabled individuals as “inspirational.” Often, this label is applied simply because of their existence, their daily navigation of a world not always built for them. But does this inherent “inspiration” equate to heroism? And more importantly, does it sometimes overshadow the very real achievements of disabled people?

It's a nuanced question, one that dances on the delicate line between admiration and unintentional othering. On one hand, there's a genuine sense of awe at the resilience and adaptability many disabled individuals demonstrate.

Living with a disability in a society that often presents barriers – physical, attitudinal, and systemic – is challenging. The daily problem-solving, the advocacy, the sheer determination to participate fully in life can be truly remarkable. In this context, the label of “hero” might stem from a place of respect for this inherent strength.

Simply existing with a disability is an extraordinary feat

However, there's a potential pitfall. When we automatically label someone a hero because of their disability, we risk reducing their entire identity to that single characteristic. It can inadvertently suggest that simply existing with a disability is an extraordinary feat, lowering the bar for what constitutes genuine accomplishment. This can be patroniSing, stripping away agency and individual merit.

Think about it. Would we call an able-bodied person a hero simply for going to work, raising a family, or pursuing their passions? Probably not. These are seen as normal aspects of life. So, why do we sometimes bestow the “hero” title on disabled individuals for doing the very same things?

The true heroes among us, disabled or not, are those who strive, who innovate, who contribute meaningfully to society, and who overcome obstacles – not just the obstacle of their disability, but challenges in their chosen fields, in their personal lives, in their efforts to make the world a better place.

Their heroism lies not in overcoming their disability to participate, but in their world-class performance

Consider Stephen Hawking, whose groundbreaking work in physics wasn't heroic because he had ALS, but because of his profound intellect and relentless pursuit of knowledge despite it. Think of Paralympians who push the boundaries of athletic achievement through dedication, training, and exceptional skill. Their heroism lies not in overcoming their disability to participate, but in their world-class performance.

We need to shift the focus. Instead of seeing disability as the defining characteristic of heroism, let's recogniSe the heroism in the accomplishments, the talents, and the character of disabled individuals.

Let’s celebrate the entrepreneur who built a successful business despite accessibility challenges, the artist whose work moves us deeply, the activist who tirelessly fights for the rights of others.

True heroism isn't about being disabled; it's about what you do

It’s about seeing the person first, with their unique skills, passions, and contributions. Their disability may be a part of their story, and their resilience in navigating it may be admirable, but it shouldn't be the sole lens through which we view their worth or their achievements.

Let’s move beyond the simplistic narrative of inherent “inspiration” and embrace a more nuanced understanding of heroism – one that acknowledges the strength in overcoming adversity while truly celebrating the tangible achievements of all individuals, disabled and non-disabled alike.

True heroism isn't about being disabled; it's about what you do.