This presentation examines how short documentaries can illuminate the lived experiences of people with disabilities while encouraging audiences to rethink their perceptions and roles in fostering inclusion. Presenter John Schaffer has spent more than 20 years creating award winning documentaries in collaboration with people with disabilities, centering authentic storytelling and representation.
The session features three short films, Matthew Part 2, Living In Visible Pain: Vince, and Picturing Inclusivity, each highlighting a different individual and disability experience. After each screening, participants will engage in a guided discussion exploring themes such as ableism, differences between non-apparent and apparent disabilities, caregiving, communication and community inclusion. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how documentary storytelling can challenge assumptions and inspire meaningful support for people with disabilities.
Learning Outcomes
- Participants will be able to analyze how short documentary films convey the lived experiences of people with disabilities and challenge common assumptions about disability.
- Participants will be able to identify themes such as ableism, caregiving, communication, and community inclusion as presented in the featured documentaries.
- Participants will be able to evaluate practical ways to foster more inclusive perspectives and behaviors within their own communities, informed by insights from the films and discussions.
- One film shows a person in immense pain and may be uncomfortable for some viewers.