The Intersection of Person, Culture, and Disability

This interactive training invites participants to examine how culture, disability, and personal identity shape the experiences of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Grounded in the Principles of Disability Justice from Sins Invalid, we’ll explore how unconscious bias, cultural norms, and systemic inequities impact access, autonomy, and dignity.

Through plain language definitions, visual storytelling, and collaborative activities, participants will deepen their understanding of intersectionality and how it relates to disability. Together, we’ll challenge assumptions, honor lived experience and reimagine support systems that celebrate complexity and foster belonging.

This training is designed for professionals, advocates, and anyone committed to equity in disability services. No prior knowledge required—just curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to reflect.

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Define key concepts including intersectionality, cultural humility, person-centered planning, and disability justice using plain language
• Recognize how cultural identity and systemic bias influence the experiences of people with IDD
• Apply trauma-informed and person-centered approaches to support that honor autonomy, dignity of risk, and cultural context
• Reflect on their own biases and assumptions, and explore strategies for fostering inclusive, culturally responsive environments
• Collaborate with others to co-create practices that center lived experience and challenge ableist norms