events have a ramp up on the stage , so that emerging artists see that and know it ’ s possible . I also would love Auslan interpreters to be on the stage as well .
Accessibility for the audience Many people can ’ t access live music because of physical barriers , but also attitudinal barriers .
Stigma I want an industry that doesn ’ t see disability as a deficit or something that ought to be feared .
Low expectations I think historically , musicians with disabilities have had to face low expectations held by the wider industry .
What do you envision for the arts and people with disabilities ?
I think we are seeing change , whilst it ’ s not happening fast enough , I have noticed a huge shift . It ’ s an exciting time to be a disabled artist . I believe we will see more labels that are for artists with disability , and more opportunities for musicians to write for TV and Film where there might be a disabled character . That ’ s my hope , that we start to see the representation that ’ s so clearly deserved .
When did your disability activism begin ?
I didn ’ t purposefully decide I was going to be an activist . I just got so fired up by the change that I wanted to see in the world that I created content that started conversations and enabled me to speak about my own lived experience so that I could help others .
I think if you want to become an activist , start by choosing to advocate for the things you ’ re most passionate about changing in the world . Perhaps you can write an article ? Or speak to politicians or create art that sparks change .
What is your most proud accomplishment to date ?
My children . My books Come Over To My House and We ’ ve Got This and my music video for Running Underwater that features disabled dancer ‘ roya the destroya ’ We haven ’ t seen disability represented like that in the music industry before , so I am really proud to have released something that might help emerging disabled artists feel seen .
What message would you like to share with the world about living with a disability and the importance of inclusivity ?
Having a disability isn ’ t a deficit , it ’ s not something that ought to be feared . It ’ s a part of life . Diversity is what makes the world wonderful . The hardest part about being disabled is living in an inaccessible world , and together we can change that !
Believe in yourself . Don ’ t be afraid to share your story and who you are . Difference is what makes the world beautiful . In fact I feel it makes us stronger artists .
elizahull
. com
~ Eliza
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