This topic is something that’s been on my mind for a while. Usually, the words come eloquently and naturally when I write, but lately, it’s been a struggle to find the right words, so I hope I can do this justice!

Something that I often hear from many people I meet is that I am an inspiration. While I know it comes from good intentions, and it may come from a genuine place, this term is something that makes me uncomfortable, and here’s why.

In the disability community, we have a term called “ inspiration porn.” The definition of inspiration porn is the portrayal of people with disabilities as being inspirational to non-disabled people on the basis of their life circumstances.

Think about it this way if you’re in the store and you’re buying some groceries, and someone comes up to you and says, “ oh my gosh, you are such an inspiration!” You would probably be thrown off guard and very confused because everyone buys groceries! What would the difference be if you said that to someone with a disability? The answer is absolutely nothing! We are still people just like you, and even though we may have to accommodate things a little differently to be able to do a certain task, that doesn’t mean I should be treated any differently.

You can be inspired by someone’s mission. If they want to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities like myself or any other cause that is important to them, that is great! I have many role models with disabilities that empower me every single day! However, if you are inspired by the person solely because they have a disability I encourage you to strongly reevaluate your thinking.

I want you to be inspired by my mission and what’s in my heart.. not just because of the circumstances that life has given to me.. My name is Kelsi Weaver not your inspiration!

I am including a link to a speech given by Stella Young, a disability rights activist. The speech is called “I’m not your inspiration, thank you very much.” I encourage you to check it out.

I’m not your inspiration, thank you very much.”- Stella Young