Models of Disability: Historical Context, Oppressive Frameworks, and New Narratives

Upcoming Dates

  • Thursday, July 9, 2026
    10:00am – 12:00pm
    Virtual

Course Description

This session is about unpacking ableism from its roots in history anti-Blackness, eugenics, misogyny, colonialism, imperialism and capitalism.  We will examine how models of disability are mobilized today to institutionalize, segregate, and disempower people with disabilities.  Often issues of race and gender are not centered in disability spaces and issues of disability are not centered in race and gender-centered spaces. This session is designed to foster solidarity for stronger movement work. In this approachable and conversational training, you will learn (and unlearn) different social narratives of disability and how Disabled people throughout history have informed their own sense of identity. We'll explore movements rooted in disability rights, the social model of disability and disability justice.

Presented by: Rebecca Hoyt

If you need an accommodation, interpretation, or translation services, please contact RHoyt@cityofmadison.com.


Learning Objectives:

  1. Learn disability history (the things you were never taught in school)
  2. Think critically about systems
  3. Be able to identify models of disability in language and media
  4. Expand your understanding of the power and resilience of Disabled people

Course Materials:

  • Coming Soon
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