Book of the Month – July | Demystifying Disability by Emily Ladau

In recognition of Disability Pride Month, PRSA Orlando features Demystifying Disability: What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally by Emily Ladau. This guide provides an actionable look at disability, inclusion, and allyship.

Key DEI Themes and Takeaways for PR and Marketing Professionals

Inclusive Language and Representation

Ladau stresses the importance of using respectful, person-centered language, avoiding harmful stereotypes. Communicators must be thoughtful in how disabilities are portrayed in campaigns and content.

Accessibility as a Communication Standard

Accessibility is essential. Ladau’s guide serves as a starting point as many companies are creating inclusive language guides. Communicators should embed accessibility in every element of communication.

Challenging Ableism in Media and Messaging

This book encourages professionals to recognize and dismantle ableist narratives. This includes avoiding inspiration tropes, instead amplifying authentic voices from the disabled community.

Allyship in Action

Ladau offers practical steps for being a better ally – listening, learning, and advocating. For PR pros, this means creating space for disabled voices and ensuring they are part of the storytelling process.

Why PRSA Orlando members should read it

Demystifying Disability is for anyone committed to inclusive communication. It equips professionals with the tools to challenge bias, foster accessibility, and lead with empathy. Whether crafting a campaign or shaping internal culture, this book will help you do it better—and more equitably.

Join PRSA Orlando for Communicating with Purpose: Building Inclusive and Accessible Connections, on August 21, from 8:30 – 10 a.m., at the Citrus Club in Orlando. This event will explore effective communication strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. This interactive session will feature insights from leaders across sectors — including the arts, corporate social responsibility, accessibility, and community impact — who will share practical approaches for crafting messages that drive meaningful engagement. Attendees will walk away with actionable takeaways to strengthen their communication practices and foster genuine community connections.