Here's a perfect example of Inspiration Porn, which positions differently-able bodied people on a pedestal only when they exhibit "superhuman" abilities. By overcoming their visible limitations. This rhetoric reinforces ableist attitudes about what bodies matter. Current hegemonic beliefs in western culture position able-bodied people above all others, and perpetuates problematic presentations of ability in mainstream media. Inspiration Porn aims to "motivate" able-bodied people by rhetorically stating that, "If they can do it. What's your excuse?". Those who are differently-abled are only equivalent to able-bodied people when they "overcome" the limitations of their bodies with the intent of achieving an able-bodied lifestyle. This is a form of Erasure through Assimilation. For instance, the increased encouragement of hearing aids by the medical industry has created a rift in deaf (and hard of hearing) culture. ASL has created it's own community & culture, which is being erased by abliest ideas that everyone should change their bodies to adapt to our world. Rather than creating a world that adapts to all our people. Not everyone who is differently abled is dissatisfied with their bodies, or want to live a conformist lifestyle. Not all abilities are visible. As always- stay informed, stay involved~
Bias disclaimer: I'd love to hear what you think, & create thoughtful dialogue across differences in this co-learning environment. My perspective is limited by my social location as an able-bodied person in a world that is built for me. As such, my words are not representative of everyone. One experience or explanation does not define them all. There are many valid personal narratives & better informed opinions than mine. Feel free to let me know if I've made an errors or misjudgements. I'm always open to respective constructive feedback~
