From Where I Sit

About

From Where I Sit by Kathy Bates offers an informative, honest, and sometimes deeply personal look into the world of disability. The topics Kathy writes about are not just disability issues; they are timely and relevant community issues. It is her hope that this blog will encourage the understanding that disability never discriminates, and it touches us all sooner or later.

Now Featuring "Ask Kathy"

I became a blogger in February 2016 when “From Where I Sit” began. I have researched and written on many disability-related topics, including disability rights, representation, language, pride, identity, and more! I have learned a lot from all of this blogging. But now I want to hear from you, my readers. What’s on your mind?

a caricature of Kathy Bates, a woman with blond hair in a wheel chair answering emails with a light bulb above her head

Ask Kathy

 

illustration of someone sitting curled up in a chair with a hot beverage watching snow fall through the window
Mindfulness for Healthy, Happy Holidays
It was suggested to me that I write about mindfulness for the holiday season. I didn't know very much about the subject, and I tend to get stressed du... Learn More
A woman in a wheelchair is voting.
A Full and Equal Opportunity: Vote 2024
Although many improvements have been made to make the voting process more accessible for everyone, voters with disabilities still face some challenges... Learn More
A wooden easel holds a white artboard with an black and white image of a paint palette and text reading The Art of Advocacy 2024
Celebrate the Art of Advocacy and Disability Justice
Reflecting on the history of disability justice advocacy as two exciting NH events approach: The Advocate NH Conference on 10/4 and the Disability Jus... Learn More
Headshot of Kathy Bates as a young woman
Some Things Students with Disabilities Want Their Teachers to Know
My high school adventure in the 70's was a huge challenge. It's 2024 and the school year is about to start, so I thought it would be interesting to as... Learn More
IOD blogger Kathy Bates supports the Stop Special campaign. To take the pledge, visit StopSpecial.org
What’s So Special About That?
As part of the launch of the Stop Special campaign, Kathy Bates discusses the use of the word "special" with a few people who identify as disabled. Learn More
unh students on campus
Ask Kathy: College Prep, be an Expert on Yourself
In this post, Kathy answers a question about college prep and self-advocacy. Learn More
Portrait of a kind female teacher surrounded by her elementary school students, making learning enjoyable and fun, sparking curiosity, and fostering a love for education
Ask Kathy: Classroom Atmosphere
In this post, Kathy answers a question about how classroom atmosphere can affect student engagement. Learn More
The UN flag emblem
Ask Kathy: Extending the Rights of the ADA to the Global Community
In this post, Kathy answers a question about why the U.S. still hasn't ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Learn More
little wooden stick figure cutouts of people of different colors and abilities
Ask Kathy: On the Right Path
In this post, Kathy answers a question about how a kindergarten teacher can advocate for their student. Learn More
A puzzle in the shape of a brain with different colored pieces.
Ask Kathy: Trends in Self-Diagnosis of Neurodiversity
In this post, Kathy answers a question about self-diagnosis of neurodiversity. Learn More