Friday, 20 March 2026

Disability is not a limitation

 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwy11q1pwpgo?amp;at_campaign=rss

What do you see in the picture? What do you notice, what are they doing, what do you think this story is about?

The picture shows model and writer Abena Christine Jon'el at a fashion show in Ghana last month. 

Abena wanted her appearance to make an impact at the show so she wrapped her prosthetic leg in something. Can you work out what her leg is wrapped in?


Abena wrapped her prosthetic leg in  Ghanian Kente.


Why do you think she did that?

Abena wanted to make a statement about the visibility of people with disabilities. 

Abena talks about being a child with disability. Following an illness, Abena had her leg amputated aged 2. She says, "Movement became a way of measuring survival and rebuilding confidence. In a way it was taking ownership of a body that had been through so much."

Why/ how  is movement a way of measuring survival?
Why does Abena say she wants to take ownership of her body?

Abena became a writer and a speaker. Here philosophy is, "Let me hold a mirror so you can see yourself and what you can accomplish if you believe."

What do you think that means?

Abena wrapped her prosthetic leg in Ghanian Kente. Kente is a traditional handwoven textile celebrated for it's vibrant colours and deep cultural symbolism. Abena wants Ghanian's to see disabled people as they are: ambitious, stylish, talented, complex, proud and human.

"Disability is not a limitation. Having a disability is not what makes you disabled."

What does Abena mean by that?
Why wrap her prosthetic leg in the Kente?
Do you think without the kente, this story would have had such impact?

"Lack of support, lack of accessibility, that's what makes you disabled."

What is a lack of accessibility?

When Abena stepped on to the runway wearing the flag, she received lots of praise. Her walk was the most talked about moments of the night. The fashion show organiser said, "Her walk was a powerful affirmation that talent, beauty and confidence know no limitations."

Another comment was, "This is what true inclusion looks like, celebrating every story, every body and every ability."

Do you agree? What is true in inclusion for you?

For Abena, the most important message was that disabled people were not just spectators, they were centre stage. Abena wants inclusion "not to be quietly suggested, but boldly demanded."

Why is it important to Abena to have disabled people centre stage?
Abena also talks about how important Ghana is to her . Se says Ghana is her home. Which protected characteristics does this story cover?

Why is this about No Outsiders?
Which British Value is this about?

Do you want this assembly as a power point with Oracy sentence stems? To join the free mailing list and receive these assemblies as power points every week, email me on a.moffat@excelsiormat.org







 


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