Disability, belonging, and inclusive leisure. Issue 2 (4th May 2021) - Mobily, Kenneth
Abstract : This essay briefly chronicles a history of using binaries and disability/marginalized groups to stigmatize and disenfranchise, a practice that continues today. The time has come to change narratives about persons with disability by exposing the cause of most disabilities – society. Several authors maintain that disability is the human trait that should unify instead of separate. Strategies for changing the narrative are suggested, with particular reference to social construction theory and the role of inclusive leisure in reconstructing the meaning of disability. An argument for inclusion is discussed based on contact theory and the belongingness hypothesis. The institution of leisure has the responsibility to ensure full and equitable participation for persons with disabilities and inclusion for all.