Disability is a complex and diverse concept that goes beyond physical limitations to encompass mental, sensory, and intellectual challenges. While some disabilities are visible, many others are hidden, shaping the experiences of individuals in unique ways. Historical evidence highlights the existence of disabilities across different cultures and societies, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and acceptance.
However, the journey towards equality and empowerment for disabled individuals has been fraught with challenges. From the dark days of eugenics to the atrocities of the Holocaust, disabled people have long been marginalized and discriminated against. Even today, issues like poverty, social exclusion, and limited access to healthcare persist among disabled populations in various European countries.
Women with disabilities face additional hurdles, including higher rates of violence, limited employment opportunities, and inadequate healthcare services. The intersection of gender and disability further complicates their experiences, making it essential to address the unique challenges they face in society.
Despite these obstacles, activists, advocates, and organizations are working tirelessly to promote the rights and well-being of disabled individuals. Through awareness campaigns, policy initiatives, and community support, progress is being made towards creating a more inclusive and accessible society for all.
Meet the Guests:
Bernadette Feuerstein: An Austrian disability rights activist and public official, Bernadette has been a prominent figure in the Austrian disability movement, advocating for barrier-free access and equal rights for all.
Walter Mathes: An actor, art therapist, and cartoonist, Walter has dedicated his career to working with people with special needs, addictions, and in correctional facilities, using art and theatre as tools for empowerment and expression.
Maria Dinold: Maria works on integrating people with disabilities into cultural life and promoting social inclusion through artistic activities. She is actively involved in organizations that advocate for the rights and well-being of disabled individuals.
Behind the Scenes:
Creative Team: Led by editor-in-chief Réka Kinga Papp and art director Merve Akyel, the creative team is dedicated to producing engaging and informative content that sheds light on important social issues.
Management: Hermann Riessner and Judit Csikós oversee the project’s management, ensuring a smooth and efficient production process.
OKTO Crew: The OKTO Crew, including producer Senad Hergić and video recording specialists, plays a crucial role in capturing and documenting the guests’ stories and experiences.
Postproduction: Nóra Ruszkai leads the postproduction team, ensuring that the final video is of the highest quality and meets the project’s standards.
Art: Victor Maria Lima and Cornelia Frischauf contribute their artistic talents to the project, creating animations and theme music that enhance the audience’s viewing experience.
Captions and Subtitles: The team responsible for captions and subtitles, including Julia Sobota and Farah Ayyash, ensures that the content is accessible to a diverse global audience.
Sources and Disclaimer:
Sources: The information presented in this article is based on various sources, including academic studies, reports, and reputable organizations that focus on disability rights and social inclusion.
Disclaimer: This talk show is a Display Europe production co-funded by the Creative Europe Programme of the European Union and the European Cultural Foundation. The views expressed in the show are those of the authors and speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the EACEA.