Podcast host, advocate and disability activist Brooke-Jade Millhouse speaks to Kate Stevenson about why she’s dedicated to amplifying the voices of disabled people
For most disabled people, activism is an everyday part of our lives. There’s no such thing as a day off when it comes to advocating for yourself and your rights.
Disabled activist and professional speaker Brooke-Jade Millhouse is passionate about her community’s rights and inclusion. She originally started her podcast – Disabled and Proud – to create a space for disabled people to have raw, open, and funny conversations in the media.
She wanted to show the world that there is beauty in disability, and focus on something that wasn’t about the “Paralympics or pity… I wanted to create a space for people to share real stories without judgement,” reveals Brooke-Jade. “Because yes, sometimes being disabled is really difficult, but it doesn’t mean we can’t be incredibly proud of the people we are.”
SPEAK UP
Starting conversations about disability issues is super important, but sometimes it can feel like no one’s listening… And, if they are, you might be making them feel awkward: “It’s not the most comfortable thing to do, but that’s life. It sounds harsh, but sometimes we have to stand our ground and make people feel mildly uncomfortable about our experiences.”
Once you start using your voice and rallying with your peers, Brooke-Jade says it can be hard to stop. She’s been involved with some powerful projects in the past, including working with Breast Cancer UK to promote inclusive fitness spaces, and partnering with Twickenham Stadium for the Six Nations, to encourage venues to think about accessible facilities.
Being an activist is a full-time job, and it’s also a lot of fun. But Brooke-Jade reminds us to look after ourselves and ensure we find joy in our projects, whether big or small. “It doesn’t have to be a massive protest,” she divulges. “You’re no less involved because you didn’t turn up to a protest – emailing someone is a form of activism too.”
BE AN ALLY
Change doesn’t happen overnight and, unfortunately, it’ll take more than just disabled people to make enough noise to make a difference. Brooke-Jade encourages disabled people and their friends, families and colleagues to get involved: “Allies need to be accomplices, not the star of the show,” says Brooke-Jade. “It’s almost like I need you to hold my hand while I’m saying something, but I don’t need you to say it for me. It’s great you’re supporting us, but just make sure you listen too.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION
To listen to Brooke-Jade’s podcast, search for the Disabled and Proud Podcast.