2020: Ability & Disability

Learn More

To complement the first-person learning of peoples' lived experiences, these resources can help you explore various aspects of the system, from macro and micro perspectives. While it is not exhaustive, this list is here to help you begin further exploration and learning about various aspects of the issue.

Learning to See Unseen Communities
The works of John Elder Robison
TED talks on disability
Spoon Theory essay and performance by author Christine Miserandino
The Arc of the United States: The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Flat Hat Video on Campus Physical Accessibility
Americans with Disabilities Act
Resources from the National Association of the Deaf
Hearing Loss Association of America
disAbility Law Center of Virginia
Special Education Resources from the Virginia Department of Education
Introduction to Universal Design For Learning (pdf): UDL is an approach to curriculum design that can help teachers customize curriculum to serve all earners, regardless of ability, disability, age, gender, or cultural and linguistic background. UDL provides a blueprint for designing strategies, materials, assessments, and tools to reach and teach students with diverse needs.

Take Action

Explore events, service and advocacy opportunities.

Engage with local non-profits such as The Arc of Greater Williamsburg, Dream Catchers Therapeutic Riding, Child Development Resources, One Child Center for Autism, W&M Campus Buddies and W&M Best Buddies, Down Syndrome Association of Hampton Roads
Follow and advocate on current legislation related to disability. You can also participate in advocacy programs hosted by organizations like The Arc of Virginia
Evaluate the accessibility of the spaces and places you regularly frequent and evaluate the accessibility of the websites you manage or use.
At William & Mary you can report an accessibility barrier and plan more accessible on-campus events
Download and utilize Microsoft Translator which provides live captioning (in multiple languages) for presentations.