This chapter explores how users with disabilities create inclusive spaces on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) through counterspaces and counter-narratives. It examines how lived experiences are shared to challenge stigma and promote inclusion. Based on a one-million-word corpus of tweets from January to April 2023 (with hashtags like #disability and #inclusion), the research investigates how disabled users navigate digital spaces, build communities, and advocate for systemic change. The study asks: How do users use social media to increase visibility for people with disabilities? What are the dominant themes? How do these findings relate to broader efforts for inclusivity on digital platforms? Findings highlight the significance of digital participation for equity and belonging, while noting persistent challenges of ableism. The study concludes that platforms like X are vital for promoting inclusion and advocacy, but ongoing technological and social improvements are needed for true equity.

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Creating Inclusive Spaces on Digital Platforms: Twitter/X as a Case Study

  • Stefanie Ullmann

摘要

This chapter explores how users with disabilities create inclusive spaces on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) through counterspaces and counter-narratives. It examines how lived experiences are shared to challenge stigma and promote inclusion. Based on a one-million-word corpus of tweets from January to April 2023 (with hashtags like #disability and #inclusion), the research investigates how disabled users navigate digital spaces, build communities, and advocate for systemic change. The study asks: How do users use social media to increase visibility for people with disabilities? What are the dominant themes? How do these findings relate to broader efforts for inclusivity on digital platforms? Findings highlight the significance of digital participation for equity and belonging, while noting persistent challenges of ableism. The study concludes that platforms like X are vital for promoting inclusion and advocacy, but ongoing technological and social improvements are needed for true equity.