Studies of resiliency have shown a strong positive correlation between self-concept and religion. In recognition of this reality faith communities are increasingly being welcomed as partners in a broad range of health promotion activities. Prevention of secondary disability is one key place where faith communities can provide leadership in public health initiatives at the grass roots level. Despite their potential as health advocates faith communities are often inaccessible to people with disabilities. Limited access is due to physical, social and theological barriers. Understanding these barriers in their contemporary and historical contexts is crucial to addressing the isolation and alienation many people with disabilities experience from faith communities. It is also imperative to address these issues in recognition of faith communities as partners in public health.
This session will analyze the types of barriers that limit access to faith communities and their historical context. Participants will receive practical information on initiatives and curriculum utilized by different faith communities and traditions working to address disability access. They will identify ways faith communities can serve as mediums to prevent secondary disabling conditions. Participants will discuss the broader implications of disability access and articulate methods to address access.
Learning Objectives: During this session, faculty will discuss disability access as a public health imperative for faith communities and practical methods of increasing disability access and inclusion. At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. Recognize the importance of disability access and inclusion as integral to the life and mission of a faith communities 2. Recognize inclusion of people with disabilities in faith communities as a public health imperative 3. Articulate the historical and contemporary barriers to inclusion 4. Identify methods of increasing disability access to faith communitie
Keywords: Disability, Faith Community
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.