DisElectAbility: A Deep Dive into Disability Activism with Paula Peters

In this episode of DisElectAbility, host Autisticly Aar speaks with disability activist Paula Peters from Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC). Peters discusses the impact of winter fuel allowance cuts on older disabled individuals, the contentious assisted dying bill, and the worrying push towards austerity measures by the current Labour government. She emphasizes the need for increased financial support, accessible housing, and NHS services underpinned by progressive taxation. Peters also stresses the importance of collective activism and the potential role of independent candidates in representing disabled people. She calls for solidarity and urges listeners to engage in various forms of activism to bring about change and support DPAC’s crowdfunded initiatives.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:30 Guest Introduction: Paula Peters

00:57 Impact of Labour Government Policies on Disabled People

03:07 Assisted Dying Bill Concerns

07:00 Social Care Crisis and the Need for Reform

28:01 Political Homelessness Among Disabled People

34:07 Activism and Campaigning for Disabled Rights

40:18 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

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Guest:

Ashleigh Talbot – Co-founder of What The Trans?!, journalist, activist, disabled trans woman living with MS.

Bex Foulsham - non-binary trans woman who is a member of the Liberal Democrats and campaigner

In this powerful episode of DisElectAbility, host Aar Jae Williams is joined by Ashleigh Talbot, co-founder of the independent trans news podcast What The Trans?!. Together, they explore the current political, social, and media landscape affecting the UK’s trans and disabled communities. The conversation spans the deeply controversial Supreme Court ruling in For Women Scotland v. Scottish Ministers, the impact of the Sullivan and Cass reviews on trans healthcare, the role of right-wing US influence in shaping UK policy, and the devastating proposed cuts to disability benefits like PIP under the Labour government.

Ashleigh, a wheelchair user and MS patient, brings a razor-sharp critique of media transphobia, the NHS’s failures in supporting marginalised identities, and the performative neutrality of mainstream journalism. The episode also features a heartfelt voice note from trans activist Bex Foulsham responding to the Supreme Court ruling, emphasizing the psychological toll and erosion of legal protections for trans people in the UK.

From media myths to grassroots resistance, this is a call to action: resist, organize, support one another, and push back against a growing wave of ableism and transphobia.

EMAIL: neurorainbow@neurorainbowproject.comm

FOLLOW ASHLEIGH ON BLUESKY: https://bsky.app/profile/ashleigh.whatthetrans.com

FIND MORE ABOUT WHAT THE TRANS?!: https://whatthetrans.com/

SIGN PETITION ON THE SUPREME COURT RULING: https://www.change.org/p/overturn-the-uk-s-new-legal-definition-of-a-woman

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Economic and Policy Impacts on Disabled People: A Conversation with Robert Buckland

In this episode of DisElectAbility, the Disability Politics Podcast, host Aar Jae/Eira-Auri Williams engages in a detailed discussion with Robert Buckland, former MP and cabinet minister, focusing on disability and autism policies in the UK. They explore the economic policies over the past 15 years, the impact of austerity on disabled people, and Buckland's work with the autism employment review. Buckland also shares his personal connection to autism, insights from his political career, and perspectives on current political challenges and government actions. The episode emphasises the need for improved support, inclusivity, and policy reform to better meet the needs of disabled people in the UK.

Email: neurorainbowproject.com

Follow on Bluesky: @neurorainbwoproject.com

Visit: neurorainbowproject.com/diselectability for more

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episode content:

00:00 Introduction to Electability Podcast

00:49 Overview of British Politics and Disability

02:23 Economic Policies and Their Impact on Disabled People

06:38 Political Activism and Social Media

13:41 Interview with Robert Buckland

14:07 Robert Buckland's Political Journey and Autism Advocacy

18:38 Challenges and Achievements in Autism Support

25:15 Reflections on Government Policies and Future Directions

57:13 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes

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The Intersection of Politics and Fandom: An Interview with Dr. Phoenix CS Andrews

In this episode of Diselectability, Aar Jae Williams (Eira-Auri) interviews Dr. Phoenix CS Andrews, author of 'I Heart Politics,' which explores the theory of political fandom culture and its impacts in the age of mass-market popular culture. Dr. Andrews, who is disabled and neurodivergent, shares insights on how autism and ADHD influence his perspective on political engagement. The discussion delves into the intersections of fandom, populism, conspiracy theories, and the broader implications for disabled and marginalised communities. Additionally, they touch on Dr. Andrews' personal journey with late diagnoses of several disabilities and the unique challenges and experiences that come with it. The episode also explores how disabled people navigate political spaces, the representation of neurodivergent and transgender individuals in media, and how supportive fandoms provide community and identity. Upcoming episodes will feature interviews relevant to disability and politics, including a talk with former government minister Robert Buckland on government policies affecting disabled people.

For more from Dr. Andrews please and his book visit thatdocphoenix.com and https://linktr.ee/iheartpolitics

Any personal quieries, feedback or responses to anything discussed email: neurorainbow@neurorainbowproject.com

Subscribe to the new patreon channel visit patreon.com/rainbowpacifier or support via ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/neurorainbowproject

For more visit neurorainbowproject.com

00:00 Welcome to Diselectability Politics Podcast

01:14 Introducing Dr. Phoenix C. S. Andrews

02:45 Exploring Political Fandom Culture

03:53 Subscription and Social Media Information

05:28 Dr. Andrews' Personal Journey

08:07 Understanding Neurodivergence

10:57 Challenges in Education and Employment

26:29 Living with Cerebral Palsy

34:17 Adapting Sports for Disabled Individuals

41:46 Facing Accessibility Challenges

42:17 Visibility and Advocacy

42:59 Guide Dog Discrimination

44:17 Politics as Fandom

46:50 Writing 'I Heart Politics'

50:50 Defining Fandom and Populism

01:01:44 Negative Fandoms and Conspiracy Theories

01:10:50 Impact on Marginalized Communities

01:14:43 Changing Attitudes and Future Prospects

01:19:02 The Political Capitalization of Concepts

01:20:02 Impact of Famous Figures on the Autistic Community

01:21:20 Media Representation and Stereotypes

01:22:33 Challenges of Neurodivergent Representation

01:23:15 Misconceptions and Stereotypes

01:25:16 Navigating Social Interactions

01:39:07 Fandoms and Community Building

01:46:39 Accessibility and Inclusion in Fandoms

01:49:42 Hopes for Change in Neurodivergent and Queer Communities

01:54:48 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

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Disability Politics with Brendan Roberts: Neurodivergence and Political Engagement

This episode features Brendan Roberts, a 23-year-old from Torfaen with autism and dyspraxia. Brendan discusses his experiences in various professional roles, including at the Department of Work and Pensions and Voices from Care Cymru, where he has significantly influenced Welsh government policy. He also delves into his political journey with the Liberal Democrats, his advocacy for social justice, including LGBT+ rights, and the importance of diverse voices in politics. The episode highlights the challenges and systemic barriers faced by neurodivergent and disabled individuals in the workplace and political arena, emphasizing empathy and accessibility.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:31 Podcast Content Overview

02:59 Guest Introduction: Brendan Roberts

10:51 Brendan's Professional Journey

13:33 Challenges of Being Neurodivergent

19:05 Experiences with the Benefits System

20:38 Empathy and Understanding in the Workplace

22:24 Brendan's Political Involvement

22:42 Discovering Politics and Joining the Lib Dems

23:34 Campaigning and Running for Office

23:56 Becoming a Candidate and Party Roles

25:05 Reflections on Welsh Independence and Party Politics

26:17 Motivations and Honest Conversations in Politics

27:28 Brexit and Party Policies

28:22 Challenges and Optimism in Welsh Politics

32:02 Roles and Achievements in Care Cymru

35:52 Working with Welsh Government and Cross-Party Efforts

40:50 Reflections on Coalition Years and LGBT+ Advocacy

43:10 Accessibility and Representation in Politics

48:20 Future Hopes for Disabled and Neurodivergent People

53:20 Closing Remarks and Social Media

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Empowering Youth Voices: An Interview with Troy Njenje-Mbanga

In this episode, the host, Autisticly Aar, interviews Troy Njenje-Mbanga, a 21-year-old ambassador and youth activist from West Oxford Wakefield. Troy shares his journey of advocating for inclusion and the rights of young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). He discusses his personal experiences with autism, the support he received, and the importance of youth participation in activism. Troy highlights his involvement with organizations like iWill and Reach Out To All, focusing on social issues such as education, climate change, and mental health. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in accessing support services and the need for improved mental health resources.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:46 Meet Troy: Advocate and Activist

01:24 Troy's Personal Journey with Autism

02:53 Challenges and Coping Strategies

08:26 Involvement in Advocacy Groups

11:49 Campaigns and Key Issues

13:01 Improving Education and Inclusion

22:39 Mental Health Support for Young People

32:54 Political Engagement and Voting

39:17 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

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Episode description:

Paula Peters: A Lifelong Activist for Disability Rights

In this heartfelt and compelling interview, Paula Peters recounts her journey as a disability rights activist starting from the age of eight. Paula discusses her personal struggles with hypermobility syndrome and the fight to keep hydrotherapy services available in Southeast London. She delves into her experiences within the mental health system, challenges with employment, and the impact of political decisions on disabled individuals. Peters highlights her involvement with Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), emphasizing their campaigning efforts, the importance of collective activism, and their fight against austerity and privatization of the NHS. The discussion also explores her views on the current political climate and the necessity of continued activism to secure the rights and dignity of disabled people. Trigger warnings include mentions of mental health struggles, psychiatric abuse, and the impacts of austerity measures.

Find out more about DPAC: https://dpac.uk.net/about/

Timings of episode running order:

00:00 Introduction to Paula Peters

00:15 Early Activism and Hydrotherapy Campaign

01:42 Mental Health Struggles and Advocacy

04:22 Joining DPAC and Fighting Austerity

14:53 Challenges in the Workplace

17:52 Issues in Mental Health System

22:24 Impact of Political Decisions on Mental Health

27:43 The Need for Systemic Change

31:28 Concerns Over Lifelong Disabilities and Government Reforms

35:06 The Impact of Political Parties on Disability Rights

38:51 Upcoming Day of Action and Campaign Demands

42:57 Challenges in Voting and Political Representation

53:01 Future Hopes and Continued Campaigning

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Disability and General Elections: A Talk with Activist Ciara McCarthy

Join Ciara McCarthy, an award-winning disability activist, as she discusses the importance of disabled people's involvement in the general election. Ciara addresses challenges like voter accessibility, manifestos, political engagement, and the need for more representation of disabled individuals in politics. She emphasizes the significance of understanding party policies, the impact of COVID-19 on the disabled community, and the importance of mental health services. Throughout the conversation, Ciara advocates for better education on political systems and encourages voter participation, especially among young and disabled voters.

Episode Running Order:

00:00 Introduction to Disability Politics Podcast

02:26 The Importance of Voting for Disabled People

04:02 Challenges in Political Accessibility

05:36 Manifestos and Their Impact on Disabled Voters

09:24 Personal Political Views and Priorities

11:26 COVID-19 and Its Impact on Disabled Communities

20:05 Voter ID and Political Participation

22:16 Encouraging Disabled Representation in Politics

24:56 Education and Political Awareness

41:34 Mental Health Services and Transitioning

49:56 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Find out more about how to vote at this UK election (applies for UK citizens and of UK nationality only and are registered to vote): https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/election-2024

Find who is standing in your local constituency: https://whocanivotefor.co.uk

If you know more about the podcast: https://neurorainbowproject.com/diselectability

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