Disability inclusion activist Doug McCullough discusses his new book, "A Billion People in the Shadows: The Ultimate 1-hour Guide to Understanding Disability," with Chris Boraski.
About the Book (from the publisher):
In a world that often excludes or overlooks the wealth of experiences and perspectives of individuals with disabilities, "A Billion People in the Shadows" emerges as a compelling exploration of the world's largest and most misunderstood minority group. With 15-20% of the global population living with disabilities, Doug McCullough's narrative delves into the profound impact of societal perceptions and self-imposed stigma on those facing all types of disability, including sensory, physical, intellectual, developmental, and mental health.
McCullough utilizes his journey with a degenerative neuromuscular disease (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) to candidly reveal the shame and marginalization often experienced by those in the disability community. Despite academic, professional, and social successes, McCullough wrestles with how to "show up" as a person with a disability. His turning point comes with the realization that the key to reshaping perceptions - both his own and others' - lies within himself. McCullough emphasizes this is a critical step individuals must make to live their best life, and asserts that self-doubt and low expectations can be more crippling than any disability.
McCullough concisely dissects and counters misconceptions routinely encountered by the disability community. Encouraging readers to broaden their view of disability, he establishes that disability is not a hindrance but a vibrant form of diversity, offering valuable skills and perspectives. That disability inclusion is not about being nice but being better. We are all in this life together, we all have abilities and challenges, and we all have a collective responsibility to uplift each other physically, mentally, and emotionally. McCullough calls for full inclusion rather than mere accessibility and provides practical insights on how society can better do this on multiple fronts to truly bring "a billion people out of the shadows."
About the author:
Doug McCullough wrestled for years on how to "show up" as a person with a disability. During a successful professional career, he became an "accidental activist" working to raise the bar on disability inclusion. A popular speaker known for his authenticity and humor, Doug has spoken at numerous corporate and business events throughout the United States and around the world.
About the moderator: Chris Boraski is an entrepreneurial-minded hands-on technical leader with broad experience constructing mobile apps and web applications. As the co-Founder of Princeton Tech Meetup and a Board Member at Princeton Toastmasters he is a passionate communicator, community builder and speaker.
