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CHThings Disabled People Are Expected To Do That Non-Disabled People Would Never Be Asked
Here are things disabled people are expected to do that non-disabled people would never be asked. Once you notice them, you cannot unsee them.
1. Prove our disability on demand
Non-disabled people are never asked to list symptoms, injuries, or diagnoses just to be believed. Yet disabled people get questioned about mobility aids, parking, time off, and adjustments as if our lives are court cases.
2. Be grateful for the bare minimum
A lift that works, a ramp that is not blocked, a toilet you can actually get into. These are treated like luxuries, not access. No one else is expected to be grateful for simply being able to enter a building.
3. Plan everything around other people’s comfort
We are expected to avoid being an inconvenience. To take the longer route, or the harder option, so no one has to move a chair or hold a door. Non-disabled people do not have to apologise for existing.
4. Justify needing rest or support
Non-disabled people can say they are tired and nobody asks for evidence. Disabled people say they are tired and it becomes a debate, a judgement, or an accusation.
5. Accept reduced opportunities with a smile
Jobs, events, education, social plans. Disabled people are expected to be understanding when something is not accessible or equitable. As if we should be grateful to be included at all.
6. Teach everyone else about disability for free
We get asked to explain policy, access, language, and lived experience at any time, even by people who could easily look it up. Non-disabled people are never expected to be walking encyclopaedias of their identity.
7. Stay positive so other people do not feel awkward
We are expected to soften the truth so it is easier for others to hear. Non-disabled people are allowed to have bad days without being inspirational or disappointing.
What else would you add to this list from your disabled or chronically ill life? Your insights help people understand the reality behind the expectations.
@chronicallyjenni
