Autism Soccer: What is Ableism and how to Curb it Successfully

Ableism bases on the discrimination against people with dissabilities through conscious or unconscious acts that damage their independence and confidence.

We live in times where information is so easy to find. One click and you can know what’s happening almost everywhere. However, although we have so much knowledge at hand, plenty misconceptions and discriminatory attitudes still abound out there. Ableism could be considered, if not the worst, one of the fears that have plagued disabled people society’s conception.

This form of hate and discrimination causes people with disabilities to be rejected, denied of accessibilities and the limited in their most necessities. You might be thinking the word “ableism” is a recent term, but it can be traced back to 1981, according to the Oxford English Dictionary.

There are lots of people out there fighting against this false way of thought. If you’re one of those, it’s a good thing you came to our blog. Here I’ll be adding some ways to curb ableism for good.

1.- Don't be patronizing

Addressing people with disabilities, as if they were less than you, it’s completely wrong. If there’s something worse able-body people could do is to perceive people with disabilities as if they were less intellectually.

Don’t ever assume someone’s intellectual capacity is based on superficial details like these. Patronizing could mine their confidence and perception of their condition. If you see someone attempting to do so, stop them.

2.- Avoid asking them what or how it happened

Questioning people with disabilities about how they ended up like that can be rude. If you want to know how it happened, let them be the ones to tell you, if they feel like doing so, of course. Some of the histories behind disability are not especially pleasant for them to talk about, so if you’re not looking for an awkward moment, just hold your horses, Sherlock.

3.- Do not assume they want to be “normal”

Assumptions about what’s normal are just out of context. Don’t assume they want to be like you because it could turn out they could have already accepted their condition as their "normal" or maybe never even questioned about being another way.

Ableism bases on imposing standards that, instead of helping them to be accepted, create labels that only cause harm. Their disability must not be considered as an “abnormal” condition, but a different way of living that demands support and assistance.

Prejudices are an old enemy, but with awareness of your side, the odds will turn against ableism. Fighting discrimination will be a definite solution and a way to change the way the world is shaped. From little details, like developing adapted venues, to major factors, like job accessibility, people with disabilities will earn the equality of rights they deserve.

There’s nothing to fear when your children are surrounded by people who understand and see their potential. Autism Soccer is aware of how important they are, and continue to work non-stop into the development of their future and skills. Remember that, above all, they’re humans who need a hand to succeed. With these professionals, they’ll definitely have it.