We all deserve to be safe, respected and to have the power to make decisions about our own lives.

But for women and gender diverse people with disabilities, respect and agency aren’t a given. They experience high rates of discrimination, violence and abuse.

That’s why Women with Disabilities Victoria has partnered with Respect Victoria to bring the voices and expertise of women and gender diverse people with disabilities to the front.

This campaign explores respect, ableism and agency, workplace access, dating and fashion, disability pride – and the power of handstands.
Each person featured unpacks the stereotypes that people with disabilities continue to face and the biases that all of us can hold.

Stereotypes about abilities, wants, and needs. Tick box accessibility plans in workplaces. Biases about who should make decisions, dating and relationships, who deserves to ask for care and who should be respected.

“I don’t want to be special; I just want to have choice.” – Kat

When we take away agency and access for people with disabilities, we make violence against them more likely.

Over one-third of women with disabilities experience some form of intimate partner violence.
Ending this violence against women and gender diverse people with disabilities starts with open conversations, challenging our own biases, and taking action to ensure that everyone is safe and equal.

“I’ve had enough of pity. I know what I want and I know what I deserve, and with the power I’ve gained over the years I will achieve that.” – Marie

What can you do to help create change?

• Listen to the voices and expertise of women and gender diverse people with disabilities. Start by sharing these videos on your social media , in your workplace, with your family and friends.
• Challenge your own and others’ biases about people with disabilities. Whether it’s dating, hosting an event or at the office – what stereotypes are you holding onto?
•  If you’re an employer, ensure the rights, dignity and agency of disabled staff members are upheld. This includes ensuring the right policies are in place, as well as ensuring you are talking to the person about what they need (as you would with anyone else!). Consider how you can recruit and promote people with disabilities in your workforce.
• If you’re creating content, feature the stories and expertise of people with disabilities on your platforms, and ensure your communications are accessible.
• If you’re organising an event – whether it’s a work meeting or your next birthday party – consider the logistics that mean everyone can participate. Whether it’s the venue or timing or type of activity – ask people what they need.
• If you run a business, think about how you can make your space and products accessible for customers with disabilities in a way that feels authentic and joyful. Whatever it is, make sure any action you take is intentional, not tokenistic. It’s okay to get it wrong, and to ask questions.

Other resources

Learn about how to make your workplace or community space can start taking action to prevent violence against women and gender diverse people with disabilities with these resources:

• Resources and training opportunities – Women with Disabilities Victoria
• Changing the Landscape – Our Watch
• Choose Inclusion campaign – Australian Disability Network
• Accessible and inclusive workplace guidelines – Australian Human Rights Commission
  
  

Support pathways

If you are experiencing family violence, concerned for your safety, or in an emergency situation please call 000 for urgent police assistance.
If you need support or advice, please reach out to a recommended specialist support service.
For a list of disability advocacy and support services, mental health support services, and other statewide services, go to our support page.
Respect Victoria and Women with Disabilities worked with Sam Biddle and his team to produce these videos and appreciate the care they all took to create a safe, inclusive and accessible environment.