My journey as a disabled refugee reveals the compounded challenges faced by individuals navigating intersecting systems of marginalization. This presentation will delve into the lived experiences of being a refugee with ankylosing spondylitis, exploring how disability intersects with refugee status to amplify systemic barriers and societal exclusion. Drawing from my reflective narrative, I will discuss the social, economic, and psychological challenges faced during displacement in Turkey and resettlement in the United States, including limited access to healthcare, discriminatory employment practices, and inadequate support systems.

Through the lens of intersectionality, I highlight how societal prejudices and structural inequities perpetuate the marginalization of refugees with disabilities. The presentation will critically examine the exclusionary ethos of resettlement programs, which often fail to consider the unique needs of disabled refugees. By framing these issues within a broader context of disability rights and refugee advocacy, I argue for a paradigm shift towards inclusive and empowering policies.

This presentation not only contributes to the emerging discourse on crip narratives but also underscores the transformative potential of storytelling in shaping more equitable practices. By sharing my story, I aim to challenge dominant narratives and advocate for systemic changes that prioritize dignity, self-sufficiency, and equity for all refugees, particularly those with disabilities.

Attendees will gain insights into the multifaceted barriers faced by disabled refugees and strategies for fostering inclusion within social work, policymaking, and community support structures. This presentation is a call to action for professionals and advocates to center intersectionality in their work and to amplify the voices of marginalized communities.