DISABILITY, MENTAL WELLNESS, AND SOCIAL JUSTICE

The Disability, Mental Wellness, and Social Justice Division is dedicated to championing the work of scholars in disability studies and mental health within a comprehensive framework of social justice. We recognize that the experiences of individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges are deeply intertwined with systemic inequities that persist across various domains of society. Our mission is to critically examine these intersections and to advocate for transformative changes that promote equity and inclusion.

We seek to create a vibrant community that fosters collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and advocates who share a commitment to advancing the understanding of disability and mental wellness. By engaging in interdisciplinary research, we aim to uncover the complexities of how societal norms and policies impact the lived experiences of individuals. Our division will prioritize education and outreach efforts that empower communities, raise awareness, and challenge stigmas associated with disability and mental health.

Through our collective efforts, we aspire to influence policy changes that reflect the principles of social justice, ensuring that the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges are recognized and addressed. We envision a future where mental wellness is celebrated, and all individuals are afforded the respect, dignity, and opportunities they deserve, contributing to a society that values diversity and inclusivity in every aspect.

Division mission statement written in November 2024 by Douglas J. Engelman, University of North Carolina Wilmington, Division Chair, 2024-2025; Melinda Leigh Maconi, Moffitt Cancer Center, Division Co-Chair, 2024-2026; and Muhammed Faisol Olaitan, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Division Co-Chair, 2024-2026.