December 3rd is International Day of Persons with Disabilities. It’s a day that recognises and values disability and diversity. It is a day to learn from the experiences of people living with a disability and when the disabled community raises awareness of the issues that are important to them, as well as having control over the ways their stories are told.
Inclusivity and celebrating diverse bodies has been at the core of Modibodi's vision and we have always believed in the power of authentic marketing. We choose to use models of all shapes, sizes, ages and abilities, and they’ve never been retouched or photoshopped images, despite pressure to do so.
We work with a range of people with all abilities across our channels, including Emily Prior for our RED range.
“I’ve grown up disabled. 13 and half years of Cerebral Palsy. Every minute of every day, I’m disabled. It is who I am. I decided when I was eight years old, I had to use my voice and take control of my “own” story as I didn’t see my disability being included.
I recognised the exclusionary messages in advertising, that people with disabilities were being excluded from mainstream media and advertising. The media told me that my disability was a tragedy. It told me I didn’t exist or belong, and it made me feel invisible. I needed to change those perceptions around disability because many people still think that disabled lives are not worth living.
I love my life. I’m smart (7 A’s last semester) I’m funny. I go to school, athletics and drama classes. I’m an Ambassador, an actor and model and travel all over Australia. I’m a good friend. I love hanging out with my friends, going shopping and to the movies - the same things you do.
I’m a sister, a cousin, a niece, a mentor, a role model and I do all of these proudly as a young disabled girl. My disability isn’t a tragedy.
My disability is a part of who I am, and I love, and I am proud of who I am. I want to be able to live in a world where being a disabled girl, I am free from discrimination, have the same opportunities and access and I am valued and recognised in my community.”
This year we launched our new Detachable Bikini, which will help more Australians with disabilities manage periods and incontinence. The hook and eye side fastening means the underwear can be put on and removed without having to lift a foot or remove any clothing – giving back independence and allowing ease of changing.
We still have a long way to go but we believe demonstrating awareness and understanding about disability helps change negative stereotypes and helps create a positive and more inclusive society.
