Strength in Vulnerability

This exhibit explores how internalized ableism is deeply ingrained in the ways we think about the bodies of people with disabilities. This series peels back inclusion, acceptance and advocacy to discuss issues that the community continues to face.

Over the last six months, 18 different participants who all live with varying disabilities were photographed and interviewed. Each person spoke openly about their personal experiences living with a disability and dealing with external and internalized ableism.

“These are realistic stories of people who are doing real things – in a real community and a real space – and how they have succeeded,” said Nichols. “I’m hoping that it opens a door to conversations about what is ableism and what is internalized ableism.”