In recent years feminist research has expanded its boundaries to include such categories as class, nationality and ethnicity and has thus succeeded in highlighting the issues affecting women in many spheres. However, despite this widening ambit there is as yet little space for disabled women in feminist discourse. This volume is based on the premise that it is important for feminist research to define a space for women with disabilities in order to establish where they stand in the ‘public mass culture’. The contributors maintain that women with disabilities face a triple challenge: as women, as disabled, and as women with disabilities. The volume highlights not only the discriminations faced by disabled women but also the transitions made by them in their search for new worlds. It critically analyses the situation of such women across the developed and developing world. In so doing, the book balances academic work with the voices of women with disabilities. The narratives have been supported by portrayals, empirical work and activist interventions. The volume begins by locating the place of disabled women in society and then goes on to collate women’s voices on where they locate themselves in their environment. It brings together writings that highlight, specifically in the sector of disability, women’s status and their endeavour to change. Finally, the book contributes to our understanding of women’s efforts and the strategies used by them to positively challenge the discriminations they face. Providing a holistic understanding and based on research and experience from around the world, this book will attract a wide audience in the fields of disability studies, women’s studies, sociology, public health and social work. It will also be of interest to policymakers and voluntary agencies.
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