Inclusive Imagery
Although we are increasingly seeing people with disabilities on TV, in movies, and in ads, images are still prone to stereotypes. Too many images show a lone wheelchair user in places devoid of other people. Or, wheelchair users are shown needing to be pushed, rather than being able to navigate independently.
It’s not a question of necessarily having more images of disability as it might even reinforce stereotypes. It gives people the illusion of knowing what life is like with a disability.
Tips for choosing inclusive images
Here are 5 points to consider when choosing images for your communications and marketing :
- Do not reinforce stereotypes.
- The majority of disabilities are invisible, e.g. low vision, hearing loss, heart disease, so show pictures of groups of people from all walks of life.
- Avoid being overly “sweet” or creating “inspiration porn”.
- Show the diversity of the the disability community, including gender and nationality.
- Consult with people with specific identities to inform your choice of images.
More reading on this topic: Putting the Disability in DEI Through Inclusive Imagery.
