Disability, Politics and Democracy

People with disabilities are frequently written out of history, not present or included. Yet we know that disabilities, both visible and non-visible, are natural occurrences across society.

The theme for Disability History Month 2026 is 'Disability, Politics and Democracy' which highlights the fact that the history of marginalisation of those with disabilities is unfair and, therefore, undemocratic. Equality isn't just about laws, it is about being seen, included and acknowledged. Fortunately, historians are increasingly looking for those marginalised figures of the past, exploring the histories of those with disabilities and adding them to the mainstream historical record.

Building a more inclusive history will take time and should happen throughout any year; however, months such as this one are necessary to prompt all of us into seeking out the stories of those who have been, and continue to be, ignored.

We are pleased to bring together a number of resources that explore disability history and to make available an entire edition of our magazine The Historian which covers the theme of 'disability'. The edition explores how historians are discovering and writing about disability history as well as articles on those who have challenged exclusion due to a disability in the past and attitudes to disability in the past.

To live in a truly democratic society we must acknowledge our past attitudes, mistakes and behaviours and seek to include all of those who are part of our societies.