Interrupting ableism in meetings requires intentional planning, effort, and an open attitude. Here’s how to start:
Preparation is Key
- Budget adequate time. Accessibility requires time; rushing compromises inclusion.
- Have a clear agenda. This helps participants navigate the meeting effectively.
- Familiarize yourself with the technology. Ensure you’re competent with the tools being used or have someone who is.
First, meet your own access needs to show up as your best self.
Cultivate an Access-Friendly Vibe
- Respect others’ access needs. Interrupting or dismissing these needs is harmful.
- Avoid making jokes about accessibility or responding self-deprecatingly to access-related requests. This behavior trivializes the importance of accommodations.
- Adopt a trusting and open attitude. People shouldn’t have to prove their access needs. Assume everyone has them and work to meet them collectively.
When we prioritize accessibility, we empower everyone to function at their highest efficacy. Accessibility isn’t an add-on; it’s fundamental.
Understanding the Root of Ableism
Unchecked ableism exists in most meeting structures. The assumption that spaces are inherently accessible for all is incorrect and harmful. Accessibility requires intentionality, effort, and an acknowledgment that baseline assumptions about what is “necessary” often exclude people.
In Digital Spaces
Access needs become even more critical in digital settings. Technology and physical circumstances can create barriers, so addressing these at the start is vital.
- Test and verify technology. Confirm captions, screen readers, and other tools are functioning properly.
- Create space for sharing needs. Allow participants to explain their physical or technological challenges and request adjustments.
- Share materials inclusively. Ensure all attendees can access and engage with shared content.
Defining Ableism
Ableism: A system of assigning value to people’s bodies and minds based on societally constructed ideas of normalcy, productivity, desirability, intelligence, excellence, and fitness. These ideas stem from eugenics, anti-Blackness, misogyny, colonialism, imperialism, and capitalism. This systemic oppression determines people’s value based on factors like culture, age, language, appearance, religion, place of birth or residence, and “health” or “wellness.”
(Definition by @TalilaLewis, updated January 2022.)
Shifting Team Culture
The key idea: You don’t need to be disabled to experience ableism. When we design meetings without ableist structures, we create conditions for everyone to succeed. Accessibility is not just a courtesy—it is a foundational practice for collective success. How will you reimagine your meetings to dismantle ableism and set your team up for success?