disability discrimination
Disability discrimination can occur when a person is unfairly treated because of their disability. This can include being refused access to a place or event, being denied an opportunity or being harassed. This is against the law and you may be able to take legal action.
People with disability discrimination are underrepresented in the entertainment sector and are often subjected to stereotypes. For example, a study found that over half of the films analysed did not feature a character with a disability. In addition, many of the roles that do feature a disabled person are played by non-disabled actors. This practice is known as cripping up, crip drag or disability drag, and is opposed by disabled rights activists.
The Ruderman Foundation and other disability advocates have urged studios to step up their efforts to hire disabled actors and to create stories with disabled characters. However, the industry has been slow to change. Producers are concerned about added production costs and are hesitant to break away from established traditions. Actors with disabilities also face barriers to employment in the industry, including unfounded concerns about their ability to portray realistically complex characters.
Can disability discrimination occur in the entertainment sector?
In order to comply with the Equality Act 2010, a public body or business must make reasonable adjustments for disabled people. This includes providing information in alternative formats and offering extra support. It can also include making changes to a building or service, for example installing a hearing loop or putting up notices on accessibility. These are called adjustments and it is against the law to discriminate against a person because they need these adjustments.
It is also against the law for people to refuse to provide a service or to restrict its use because it would involve a substantial change. For example, if a pub owner refuses to allow a man with mental health problems in because he could disturb other customers with his behaviour, this is against the law.
Similarly, an employer cannot discipline an employee because they need to take time off work to care for their child. If you are a disabled person and have been refused a service or have been made to feel uncomfortable in a public space, you can report the problem to your local authority. You can also contact the police.
If you think you are being harassed because of your disability harassment at workplace, it is important to seek advice as soon as possible. This is because harassment can be difficult to prove, but it could help you get the justice you deserve. If the harassment is serious, you can file a complaint with your local authority or the Equalities and Human Rights Commission. You can find more information about discrimination against disabled people on their website. Alternatively, you can speak to your solicitor or contact the Disability Rights Commission for advice. If you are a member of an association and want to know more about membership, visit our guide on associations. You can also find information on how to join a membership organisation or charity.