Disability Pride, Para Sport and the Power of Storytelling with Elizabeth Wright

In this episode, Elizabeth Wright shares her journey from being a Paralympic swimmer to becoming a sports journalist. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of her career, the importance of representation in media, and her personal experiences with disability. Elizabeth emphasises the need for more coverage of Paralympic sports and the significance of embracing one's identity and pride in the face of ableism. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of disability representation in journalism and the importance of community support.

Connect with Elizabeth

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethlwright/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-wright-ply-300610129/

Website: http://www.elizabethwright.net/

What we cover:

• Elizabeth Wright transitioned from Paralympic swimmer to sports journalist.
• She emphasizes the need for more representation of disabled individuals in media.
• The Sydney 2000 Paralympics were a turning point for public support of para sports.
• Elizabeth faced challenges in her identity after retiring from swimming.
• She found empowerment through photography and art.
• Living with a disability requires daily practice of self-acceptance.
• Elizabeth advocates for more coverage of Paralympic sports.
• She reflects on the ableist perceptions in society.
• The importance of community pride in disability is highlighted.
• Elizabeth aims to inspire more disabled individuals to pursue journalism.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:58 Elizabeth Wright's Journey in Sports Journalism

05:51 Reflections on the Paralympic Games

09:05 Life After Competitive Swimming

11:51 Exploring Identity Through Art and Photography

14:54 Understanding Disability and Personal Experience

21:19 The Journey of Adaptation

22:34 Prosthetics: Tools of Empowerment

26:54 Disability Pride: A Daily Practice

31:10 The Future of Disability Representation in Journalism

33:43 Confronting Ableism: Personal Experiences and Growth

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