Beyond the Social Model of Disability - Theory into Practice
Border Crossings: "When the Private Becomes Public"
Social and Cultural Space in Mallam Attah Market, Accra Ghana

This presentation consists of two parts. First, it examines the ways in which the intersection of disability, space, and place (within an urban context in Accra, Ghana) shape the lives of three individuals: Tanko, Madam Uwenu, and Ibrahim. In doing so it focuses needed attention on how individuals with mobility challenges in an African context, situate, and negotiate inclusive social spaces. The congested Mallam Attah market and surrounding areas provide the backdrop for their stories.  Second, through video, photographs, and audio, aspects of their lived experiences and shared meanings related to my own identity, as an African American female teacher educator, are explored. Experiences of race and gender within the larger context of power and privilege in the United States are also examined. This discussion is based on a social and human rights model of disability which recognizes disability as a result of economic, social and physical barriers that prevent or impede people with disabilities from participating in social and economic institutions.

Dr. G. Rasheeda Ayanru is an Assistant Professor in the Education Department. She received her Doctorate in Education with an emphasis in Curriculum and Instruction and Special Education from West Virginia University. During her studies, she was the recipient of the highly competitive W.E.B. Dubois fellowship for academic excellence.  Her research interests include: equity issues related to race, class, and disability, and the influence of biography on the practice of teachers. She has presented at various national and international workshops and conferences on multicultural education and preparing teachers to meet the needs of learners with diverse abilities. Her most recent national presentations were for The Society for Disability Studies and Disability Studies In Education conferences. Dr. Ayanru has co-authored a chapter in Race, Ethnicity, and Education: Racism and AntiRacism in Education (2006). She expects to return to Ghana to continue her research in disability studies.