Summary of Demystifying Disability

Disability rights activist, writer and speaker Emily Ladau provides an easy-to-use guide for the nondisabled who seek to understand and support disabled people. Ladau, the editor in chief of the Rooted in Rights blog, a platform amplifying narratives on the disability experience, and cohost of The Accessible Stall podcast, covers the history and current state of civil rights advocacy for disabled people and exposes the dangers of harmful stereotypes and ableism. She walks through disability etiquette – the dos and don’ts of how to talk with and about disabled people – and offers an important reminder that changing the world takes courage and persistence. Employing critical theory and checking her own privilege, Ladau argues passionately that society must adapt to disabled people – not the other way around.

Ann Friedman, author of Big Friendship, wrote that this “is a generous and approachable companion to the world of disability — especially for people who are (for the time being, at least) not disabled.” Amy Webb, author of the Charley series, said,“From general disability knowledge, to disability rights, to ableism, to what to say and what not to say, this book will provide everyone with more understanding and empathy (not pity!).”