Emancipazione e voci femminili: il progetto di vita tra difficoltà e opportunità

Abstract

The indications of the main national and international documents and the rules for the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities advocate the observance of universal principles of equality and emancipation. However, real data lead us to pursue investigations aimed at verifying if these indications and rules have become awarenesses, certainties and instruments for self-determination also for disabled women.
Through references to the scientific literature and to an empirical research that gathers many autobiographical testimonies from disabled women living in different European countries, this paper highlights some of the key categories that contribute to the specification of the elements that are involved in the delineation of an independent life project. In this regard, from the reading and the analysis of various women’s experiences, it is possible to grasp many elements and aspects that support or hinder the process of personal self-fulfilment. The reflection of Special Pedagogy on these testimonies also appears useful to identify positive experiences, to build educational and training expertise, to promote and guide cultural and social change, and to encourage the improvement of existential and life conditions for future generations.