In the U.S., more than 61 million people are living with a disability, yet they remain underrepresented in journalism produced by national newsrooms.
To better serve this audience, the Institute reached out to Katy Neas, chief executive of The Arc, a non-profit organization that promotes disabilities rights, and asked her what kinds of stories would elevate the voices of this underrepresented community.
Neas’ advice prompted the creation of four tip sheets on the topic of election 2024, journalism, and disabilities. Here is the first of the series, which we will publish in The Latest.
What are go-to reporting sources to find reliable information and people to quote for stories related to election 2024 and disabilities?
Neas: At The Arc, our mission is to uplift people with IDD [Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities], so our work is heavily guided by people with IDD and their family members. Nearly all our 575+ chapters nationwide have people with IDD and their loved ones as staff, board members, and leaders. Our National Council of Self-Advocates is invaluable for us in connecting with people directly impacted by the issues we are advocating for and here are other ways to connect with diverse people with disabilities.
Advice for reporters:
- Put out calls out for disabled sources on online communities, including X/Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, as well as platforms for journalists and PR pros, like Qwoted and HERO. Use disability-specific hashtags, such as #Disability, that may help your message reach more people.
- Familiarize yourself with local and national organizations who serve and support people with disabilities to connect with subject matter experts and self-advocates willing to share their stories. You can also tap into community hubs like churches and community centers.
- Connect with local parent groups, including social media groups, to find parents of children with disabilities just starting their journey. While our society has made a lot of progress, the first encounters families have with our education and health care systems are eye-opening and highlight modern day, practical issues.
- If you are writing about election law and the rights of voters with disabilities, see this DOJ guidance.
For further guidance and tips, see: Election coverage: 10 ways journalists can better serve voters with disabilities (National Press Club Journalism Institute)