History is frequently written by those with the most power – and those without power get left to the margins. That is the kinder way of explaining why those with a disability are often excluded from mainstream historical narratives. Of course, a simpler reason for the lack of presence of those with a disability might just be ignorance and prejudice. The needs and rights of people with disabilities are frequently overlooked in the world today, so it is probably no surprise that they have been neglected in the past. However, if a modern society is to understand all of its people, then it is important to recognise and appreciate what has brought them to that point as well as what they need in the present.

Disability History Month is an opportunity to re-examine the past, to look for the times and points when disabilities were recorded, ignored, celebrated, supported or discriminated against. It is pertinent to identify those individuals with disabilities who history already recognises and to highlight how those disabilities impacted on their lives while commending their achievements. It is important to examine how people and disabilities have been treated in the past to learn any good practices and to ensure that bad practices are stopped.

Disability History Month is a chance to look, learn and to ask questions about the past – questions that might help everyone have a better and more inclusive future.