Disability as Diversity in India: Theory, Practice, and Lived Experience

Group Submission Type: Book Launch

Description of Session

This book provides a contemporary glance at the theories, practices and experiences related to the phenomenon of disability in India. The book is unique in that it provides three distinct vantage points to understanding disability and how it is understood. The first section is primarily theoretical and empirical. Disability Studies scholars have contributed research works that push boundaries of critical and intersectional approaches to the study of disability. The second section focuses on studies and reflections of practitioners who are primarily employed in social sectors that engage with persons with disabilities. Finally, the last section is a compilation of first-person narratives by persons with disabilities themselves. This book is likely of interest to Disability Studies scholars, civil society organizations engaging in disability and empowerment work, and persons with disabilities and their families. The book idea stemmed from collaborative research by the three editors and dissemination meetings that involved most of the contributing authors. The title “disability as diversity” reflects both how disability sits within the broader diversity context of India, and is a reflection of the positionalities, experiences, and reference points of the contributing authors.

Sub Unit

• Pre-Conference Workshops, Book launches, and Visual Art Exhibits / Book Launch

Chair

• Christopher Johnstone, University of Minnesota

Book Launch Presenter

• Christopher Johnstone, University of Minnesota

Non-presenting author

• Sandhya Limaye, Tata Institute of Social Sciences