Stella Young

Disability Rights Activist

Stella Young was an Australian comedian and disability advocate known for her impactful work in promoting disability visibility and empowerment.

Born
January 1, 1982
Died
January 6, 2014
Quotes
7
Rank
#5875

About Stella Young

Stella Young — Life and Legacy

Stella Young was an influential Australian comedian, writer, and disability advocate whose work challenged societal perceptions of disability. Known for her sharp wit and engaging storytelling, Young used her platform to highlight the importance of visibility for disabled individuals. She famously stated, 'The only disability in life is a bad attitude,' emphasizing that societal attitudes often create barriers far greater than physical limitations. Young's core philosophy centered around the idea that disability should not be viewed as a tragedy but as a natural part of human diversity. Through her performances and public speaking engagements, she sought to dismantle stereotypes and promote a narrative that celebrates the lives and contributions of disabled people. Her work in the media, including her role as editor of the ABC's 'Ramp Up' website, showcased her commitment to advocating for representation and empowerment. Stella Young's impact continues to resonate today, as her quotes and ideas inspire ongoing conversations about disability rights and the importance of inclusivity. Her legacy serves as a reminder that challenging societal norms and advocating for visibility can lead to meaningful change.

Quote collection

Stella Young quotes

7 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.

Stella Young Disability Rights Activist
Popular

"Disability doesn't make you exceptional, but questioning what you think you know about it does."

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Stella Young Disability Rights Activist
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"No amount of smiling at a flight of stairs has ever made it turn into a ramp."

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Stella Young Disability Rights Activist
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"In case I get hit by a bus tomorrow, I want to make something clear - I am not a snowflake. I am not a sweet, infantilising symbol of fragility and life. I am a strong, fierce, flawed adult woman. I plan to remain that way, in life and in death."

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Stella Young Disability Rights Activist
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"My disability exists not because I use a wheelchair, but because the broader environment isn't accessible."

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Stella Young Disability Rights Activist
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"We’ve been sold this lie that disability makes you exceptional and it honestly doesn’t. … I want to live in a world where we don’t have such low expectations of disabled people that we are congratulated for getting out of bed and remembering our own names in the morning."

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Stella Young Disability Rights Activist
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"I dance as a political statement, because disabled bodies are inherently political, but I mostly dance for all the same reasons anyone else does: because it heals my spirit and fills me with joy."

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Stella Young Disability Rights Activist
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"I've been an atheist ever since I heard there was only a stairway to heaven"

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