Allied Media Conference

Presenters: Ryan Pinion, Stacy Milbern, Isabel Macdonald

When was the last time you heard or saw people with disabilities represented in the media? Part 1 of this session will break down the most common frames of discussion when it comes to disability in the media: sickness, medicine and charity. We will then present alternative representations of disability not commonly portrayed in the media and share current and historical information about the Disability Rights Movement in this country. During Part 2 of this session, the group FAIR (Fairness and Accuracy in Reporting) will share concrete tools for monitoring the media, documenting unfair and inaccurate coverage, and using this documentation as part of campaigns to achieve more accountable coverage. Participants will have the chance to practice these tools on recent media reports involving harmful representations of disability in the media, and ultimately will walk away with tools that they can apply to any campaign for social justice. You will also receive concrete tools for addressing ableism and inaccessibility issues within your own organization!