Disability Rights, Justice & Inclusion 101

Exploring disability rights, justice, and inclusion through discussion and activities, with grantmaking context.

This two-hour workshop offers a practical introduction to disability rights, justice, and inclusion, designed for grantmakers and nonprofit leaders at any stage of learning. Led by the Disability & Philanthropy Forum, and hosted by the Women’s Fund SouthCoast and SouthCoast Community Foundation, the sessions combine group discussion, media, and interactive activities to build shared understanding and spark meaningful dialogue.

Participants will explore how disability inclusion connects to organizaional values, grantmaking practices, and today’s political climate. The training introduces key concepts such as disability language, ableism, intersectionality, and the social/human rights model of disability, with real-world scenarios and space for questions and reflection. Slides and resources will be shared in advance.

The workshop emphasizes learning as an ongoing process, recognizing that disability culture continues to evolve. Attendees will leave with a stronger foundation and practical ideas for increasing disability inclusion within their organizations and communities.

Facilitator:

Sarah Napoli, Learning Services Director at the Disability & Philanthropy Forum, brings more than 25 years of experience in social justice education and disability inclusion across philanthropy, higher education, and nonprofit sectors.

Location/Parking Information:

The workshop will take place at Market Place on the UMass Dartmouth campus. For those attending the event, Parking Lot #5 will be open to participants.