Ableism

The term ableism comes from the English word ‘able’ and describes a type of discrimination against people with disabilities in which these people are reduced to their physical or cognitive impairments. Ableism is expressed in various ways, for example through exaggerated care (when a person is helped without first being asked or giving their consent), making disability a taboo subject or excluding people with disabilities from various areas in society. One example is, for instance, a lack of accessibility at various places of daily and public life that prevents participation and equal opportunities.

In order to prevent ableism, the Office of Equality and Diversity has compiled several tips for dealing with people with disabilities and drawn up a handout on inclusive language (only available in German).

Sources: Aktiv gegen Diskriminierung; Awareness Akademie