197 - Come Out Disabled in Dating
Register here for Upcoming Dating Workshop, Authentic Dating Success Path: 5 Stages to Confidence and Connection on July 9, 6:30pm EDT via zoom.
Disability Pride Month
July marks Disability Pride Month, commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990. The month celebrates achievements of people with disabilities, raises awareness about disability rights, promotes inclusion and accessibility, and honors the community's history and struggles. A key insight is that how you view your disability typically influences how others perceive it.
Bringing Disability Pride to Dating
Four key principles for incorporating disability pride into dating:
- Fight for accessibility and inclusion - Advocate for dating app accessibility and inclusion in the dating scene
- Challenge societal misconceptions - Combat stereotypes about people with disabilities being undateable or undesirable
- Demand representation - Push for people with disabilities to be featured in dating app advertisements and marketing
- Celebrate disability culture - Share disability history and culture with potential partners
Coming Out Disabled
The most important principle is to "come out disabled" - showing up as your complete, authentic self. This process is compared to the LGBTQ+ coming out experience, emphasizing the importance of embracing who you are, accepting that some people will reject differences, but ultimately attracting the right people who accept you fully. Meeting dates in person early is recommended to show the "full effect" of who you are, disability and all.
Key Teaching
The primary message: how you view your disability usually determines how others will view it. Transform the concept of disability from a barrier into a natural part of who you are and what you offer to relationships.
Our Dating Resources
Ready to enhance your dating experience? Join our Dating Made Easier community for coaching and support along your path to meaningful connection.
Supporting Dating and Relationships membership (for special educators and professionals in disability services) - is for professionals in the disability field who are looking for training and resources to effectively help students/people with disabilities in developing dating and relationship skills. Click here to learn more.
Music by Successful Motivation
Artwork photo by Elevate
