In the latest episode Zaakirah Muhammad chats with the inspiring Tiffany Yu, author of “The Anti Ableist Manifesto.” This episode dives into the powerful themes of disability inclusion, anti-ableism, and building community—three focal points of Tiffany’s groundbreaking new book.
Zaakirah opens the podcast episode by introducing the audience to Tiffany Yu’s latest book, “The Anti Ableist Manifesto,” which was launched in October to coincide with National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The book offers an insightful guide on understanding and combating ableism while promoting inclusivity in both personal and professional realms. The conversation with Tiffany uncovers her journey as a disability advocate and her mission to create a more inclusive world.
Tiffany Yu shares her personal story, tracing back to a life-altering car accident at the age of nine that resulted in her disability and the passing of her father. Overcoming intergenerational stereotypes and internalized ableism, Tiffany found solace and empowerment in community building. Her experiences in corporate environments at organizations like Goldman Sachs and Bloomberg introduced her to disability advocacy and inspired her to launch Diversability—a community that celebrates the diverse identities within the disability community.
Exploring the importance of community, Tiffany and Zaakirah recount their serendipitous meeting at a community-focused event. They emphasize how supportive environments allow individuals to embrace their identities without fear. Tiffany recounts the evolution of Diversability from a student club to a thriving community that fosters solidarity and empowerment for people with disabilities.
Actionable Steps for Anti-Ableism Tiffany outlines three actionable steps individuals and organizations can take to foster inclusivity and combat ableism:
1. Accessibility First Culture: Encourage the question, “Do you have what you need to fully participate?” This approach helps create an environment where accessibility is prioritized without singling anyone out.
2. Respectful Offers of Help: Frame assistance with phrases like “Let me know if you need anything,” allowing individuals the opportunity to accept support on their terms.
3. Support Disabled Livelihoods: Actively hire and support disabled professionals and businesses. Tiffany shares examples from her book launch, which incorporates disability-owned creators and venues.
Tiffany adds a fourth bonus tip, encouraging content creators to ensure accessibility by asking themselves if their content is inclusive for those who cannot hear or see it fully.
Conclusion and Legacy As the conversation wraps up, Zaakirah and Tiffany discuss their personal aspirations and professional endeavors to support the disability community. Tiffany remarked that she hopes her legacy will be to leave the world a little better for disabled individuals and dedicates her book in memory of her father, who inspired her passion for living unapologetically and loving the outdoors. In closing, Zaakirah expresses her admiration and gratitude for Tiffany’s presence on the See Life Different podcast, celebrating her ongoing efforts and indelible impact on the path toward a more inclusive world. For a deeper dive into Tiffany’s work and to support her mission, visit https://tiffanyyu.com/book to learn more about “The Anti Ableist Manifesto” and purchase a copy from disability-owned bookstores. — This podcast is a celebration of resilience, empowerment, and the necessary conversations we must continue having to create inclusive spaces for all.
- Disability Employment Awareness Month
- Her Financial Career Journey and Disability Advocacy
- Personal Story as a Taiwanese Woman and Overcoming Identity Challenges
- Building Community with Diversability
- Actionable Steps for Anti-Ableism
- Her Upcoming Virtual and In Person Book Launch Events and as well as her legacy and Future Plans
The Anti-Ableist Manifesto: Smashing Stereotypes, Forging Change, and Building a Disability-Inclusive World by Tiffany YuMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Thank you, Tiffany Yu, for providing an Advanced Reader Copy of this thought-provoking contribution to the disability discourse. As a reader with a personal journey through a childhood eye cancer called Retinoblastoma and its non apparent challenges, I found “The Anti-Ableist Manifesto” by Tiffany Yu to be a powerful and impactful read. Tiffany Yu, founder of “Diversability,” brings a fresh perspective to the dialogue around disability, challenging conventional narratives and encouraging us to rethink our perceptions.
One aspect of the book that resonated with me is where Yu highlights the invisible nature of some disabilities and the choice many make not to disclose them. The book encourages self-advocacy, likening it to learning a foreign language—requiring practice, patience, and support from those who understand.
Yu then invites readers to reconsider our language, suggesting a shift from “disability” to “distinguished,” to celebrate our unique approaches to life. This chapter also reiterates the importance of understanding the historical context of our word choices.
Tiffany offers valuable insights into various disability models, providing essential information for families navigating this journey with their loved ones. For parents, grandparents, guardians, and advocates, this chapter is a helpful guide to understanding and supporting their children.
A later Chapter provides a deeper understanding of ableism, not only as discrimination but as a system of oppression. Yu’s work echoes powerful messages, reminding us of the importance of fighting for a noble cause.
The book also raises crucial questions about societal perceptions of disability, the portrayal of disabled individuals in media, and the economic challenges faced by the disability community. Yu advocates for increased support for disabled entrepreneurs and highlights essential resources such as the A.B.L.E Act, venture capital opportunities, and government funding for businesses owned by disabled persons.
Overall, “The Anti-Ableist Manifesto” is an inspiring and educational read, encouraging us all to appreciate diversity and strive for a more inclusive society.
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