Ableism

As I deepen my work with chronically ill and disabled folks I am also working to deepen my understanding of ableism and my own internalized ableist learning.

One thing I’ve learned and wish to pass on to you today how the polite, getting to know you question of “so what do you do for a living?” is problematic.

This question presumes that the person you are asking is able to work.

Why do we assume this? Partly you can thank capitalism’s teaching that our value and worth is solely determined by our work and productivity.

But aren’t so much more than this?

This question also presumes that the person you are talking to is able to work.

This is a bold assumption as so many disabilities are invisible. And many of the folks that I work.

Due to internalized ableism, they may feel a lot of shame and embarrassment when asked this question.

So maybe let’s give some thought to other questions we might ask someone when making small talk or getting to know them. Here are a few off the top of my head:

What are you up to?

What are you passionate about?

Read any good books lately?

What do you do for fun?

What are you most excited about right now?