Dr James Casey introduced the concept of culture and how both culture and disability has changed over time and will continue to change, that’s where we (disabled people) have to work collectively and “be the change-makers”.

Culture is a term used to explain how humans behave and the norms found within different human societies. It is also about beliefs, arts, laws, customs, capabilities, and habits of people in these groups.

Over time the human form has evolved and was not always perfect, and this was the norm in the in ancient, and medieval times but characteristics of humans were nearly always dominated by being male, white, strong, and powerful.

It is worth noting that before the industrial revolution disabled people were just part of being, they did whatever they could and were just part of the human experience.

When the industrial revolution came into play things radically changed for disabled people and production and Capitalism became the norm. Society started to examine the deficits of disabled people and deemed them “unfit for production”.

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Boakai Abu Nyehn, Jr

Community Development Worker

Boakai Abu Nyehn, Jr joined ILMI in September 2024 as community development worker on the Disability Participation Awareness Fund (DPAF) funding project “Engaging Disabled People in Direct Provision” . He is a passionate advocate for disability rights, social inclusion, and development, with extensive experience in working to promote the rights and full participation of disabled people in Liberia. Boakai has served as a consultant on disability and social inclusion for numerous national and international agencies. He has also worked as a Research Assistant on multiple projects with organisations such as Leonard Cheshire Disability and Inclusive Development Centre at University College London, Talking Drum Studio, AIFO-Liberia, and UNMIL, ensuring that disabled people’s needs and perspectives are integrated into their programs.

As a disabled person, Boakai’s lived experience informs his leadership as Assistant Director for disabled people in Liberia. His role focuses on advocating for the inclusion of disabled people at all levels of society, promoting accessible development, and advancing the rights of the community. Boakai holds certifications in International Law and related fields and is a skilled Administrator and Assistive Technology Specialist, committed to using his expertise to create a more inclusive society for all.