It's time for the hate to end

Individuals with disabilities all over the globe suffer the effects of discrimination, ableism, prejudice and harassment. Disability hate crimes and non-crime incidents are acts of hostility against a disabled person or disabled people in general. These crimes are so systemic in our community, that they are often not reported and the offenders go unpunished. This tends to occur out of fear, where perhaps the offender is someone close to them and they don't want there to be any consequences in reporting them. Additionally, sometimes individuals with intellectual disabilities may not understand the situation and the reality of how serious the remarks and physical acts are. Thus, they are less likely to report. It is time that these attitudes are purged and acts of hate not be tolerated. It is unacceptable that discrimination has become so normative that it is allowed to impose fear and deter those with a disability from seeking justice.

Disability hate crimes do more than impact the mental wellbeing of those abused, it can effect their lifestyle and participation in society. There are obviously negative opinions in society concerning the welfare benefits that those with disabilities receive. However, due to a lack of reporting and less media coverage, these views tend to propagate, becoming imbedded in people's minds. This can then either directly or indirectly contribute to the lack of action towards removing barriers to transport, accessing public spaces and employment opportunities. These ableist experiences must be addressed not only for the sake of the safety of those with disabilities, but to ensure that the aim for equality will not be marred by wrongful and hateful views. The government must act by making certain that reporting methods are developmentally and culturally safe. There must also be support systems in place for those with mental disabilities, so that the right to understanding and reporting is protected and ensured. News forums and media platforms must also strive to raise awareness about this important issue and help break down stereotypes that often fuels this behaviour. We can no longer allow for prejudice to thrusts an entire group of society into a corner, unable to speak up against the horror they are subjected to.