As someone who navigates life with the daily challenges of chronic illness and disability, I’ve come to cherish motivational and uplifting quotes. These words of wisdom have not only offered solace and encouragement but have also become a source of strength and inspiration, helping me face each day with resilience and a positive outlook. They serve as a reminder that despite the obstacles and hurdles I may encounter, there’s an indomitable spirit within me and within all of us that can overcome even the toughest of trials. So, to help inspire you, I’ve gathered my 40 favorite quotes about disability inclusion. Let these words resonate with you as we journey through the powerful world of disability inclusion.
Motivation
Motivational quotes are like guiding stars that light the path through the darkest of nights, instilling hope, faith, and an unwavering belief in the power of the human spirit to triumph over adversity. These quotes are not mere words; they are beacons of positivity that have the incredible ability to transform our mindset and perspective. They’ve taught me the value of resilience, the importance of never giving up, and the beauty of embracing life with all its imperfections.
These uplifting quotes have been a constant source of inspiration, not just for me but for countless others who face similar challenges. They create a sense of community and solidarity, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey. They are a testament to the human capacity to overcome, adapt, and thrive in the face of adversity. While some see quotes as a waste of time, I think they are important things that can help people’s lives. The only thing that matters is whether inclusion quotes help you. As someone with physical limitations, it can be easy to become discouraged.
In my blog, I aim to share these motivational quotes to spread positivity and provide a sense of encouragement to those who may be experiencing similar struggles. Basically, I hope it’s a way of paying forward the inspiration that has brightened my life, with the hope that it can do the same for others who may need it. If you’re looking for inspiration, keep reading!
40 Inspiring Quotes About Disability Inclusion:
“I have had this desire my whole life to prove people wrong, to show them I could do things they didn’t think I could do.”
David A. Paterson, former Governor of New York, was the first legally blind person to be sworn in as governor of a U.S. state
“Disability is a matter of perception. If you can do just one thing well, you’re needed by someone.”
Martina Navratilova, a Czech-American former professional tennis player who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, as well as throat cancer and breast cancer in January 2023“Disability is a way of getting some extremeness into our lives, in a world that seems to want to limit possibilities.”
Charles M. Blow, an American journalist and commentator“The only disability in life is a bad attitude.”
Scott Hamilton, who contracted an illness at age two that caused him to stop growing for several years, before going on to become a U.S. Olympic skater.
“I wish for a world that views disability, mental or physical, not as a hindrance but as unique attributes that can be seen as powerful assets if given the right opportunities.”
Oliver Sacks, a British neurologist who worked extensively with people with disabilities, and who himself was diagnosed with the neurological condition prosopagnosia, or ‘face blindness’“My advice to other disabled people would be, concentrate on things your disability doesn’t prevent you doing well, and don’t regret the things it interferes with. Don’t be disabled in spirit as well as physically.”
Stephen Hawking, an physicist diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease
“People with disabilities are the original, eternal minority.”
Neil Squire, who was 21 years old when he was in a car accident and became a brain-stem tetraplegic, unable to move his arms and legs, and unable to speak
“It is so important to showcase people with disabilities with intersectional identities because that allows viewers to see beyond disability….People with disabilities are multilayered—we are complex breathing human beings defined by more than just what we lack.”
Lauren Ridloff, an American actress, known for her role in The Walking Dead, was born deaf
“Abled does not mean enabled. Disabled does not mean less abled.”
Khang Kijarro Nguyen
“Disability is not a brave struggle or ‘courage in the face of adversity.’ Disability is an art. It’s an ingenious way to live.”
Neil Marcus, an actor and playwright who had dystonia, a neurological disorder
“The world worries about disability more than disabled people do.”
Warwick Davis, a British actor who played Professor Flitwick and Griphook in Harry Potter, who was born with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, a rare bone growth disorder that results in dwarfism
“Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation; it means understanding that something is what it is and that there’s got to be a way through it.”
Michael J. Fox, an actor diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 29
“Inclusion works to the advantage of everyone.”
Barbara Jordan, the first African-American woman in the Texas state senate, who had multiple sclerosis
“I am different, not less.”
Temple Grandin, an American scientist, author, and professor who was diagnosed with autism at age three
“The disability is not the problem. The accessibility is the problem.”
Mohamed Jemni, a professor working on new technology to find ways to help the deaf community communicate, including automatic translation of text into sign
“I do not have a disability, I have a gift! Others may see it as a disability, but I see it as a challenge. This challenge is a gift because I have to become stronger to get around it, and smarter to figure out how to use it; others should be so lucky.”
Shane E. Bryan
“My disability exists not because I use a wheelchair, but because the broader environment isn’t accessible.”
Stella Young, an Australian comedian, journalist and disability rights activist, born with osteogenesis imperfecta and used a wheelchair most of her life
“We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends.”
Mary McLeod Bethune, an American civil rights activist“Disability is natural. We must stop believing that disabilities keep a person from doing something. Because that’s not true… Having a disability doesn’t stop me from doing anything.”
Benjamin Snow, an author and disability rights activist with cerebral palsy“If we are to achieve a richer culture, we must weave one in which each diverse human gift will find a fitting place.”
Margaret Meade, an American anthropologist“I never met a bitter person who was thankful. Or a thankful person who was bitter.”
Nick Vujicic, an Australian-American motivational speaker with tetra-amelia syndrome, a disorder characterised by the absence of arms and legs
“I don’t need easy. I just need possible.”
Bethany Hamilton, an American surfer who lost her arm in a shark attack at age 13
These quotes serve as a reminder that disability inclusion isn’t just a concept but a vibrant and essential aspect of our lives. It’s about recognizing the unique qualities and strengths of each individual, ensuring equal opportunities, and fostering a world where diversity thrives. Let us celebrate disability inclusion, for in doing so, we enrich our communities and our humanity.
People with disabilties face unique challenges, but also unique opportunities. As someone with a physical disability and chronic illness, disability quotes help remind me that we can do hard things. It is a continuous effort to stay motivated and inspired, and quotes are an easy way to do so on difficult days. Bookmark this page for the next time you’re feeling down and need some quick inspiration to help get you through.
What are some of your favourite quotes? Let me know in the comments!