Queer and Disabled Storytelling Campaign Celebrates Joy of Being Known

PWDA's InFocus: Queer & Disabled digital series highlights shared experiences between LGBTQIA+ and disability communities.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 9:28am

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, hazy tones depicting a group of people gathered in a cozy, intimate setting, their faces and bodies blurred but their body language and energy conveying a sense of joy, connection, and acceptance.The InFocus campaign celebrates the vibrant communities where LGBTQIA+ individuals with disabilities can freely express their authentic selves.Today in Orlando

InFocus: Queer & Disabled is a digital storytelling campaign led by People with Disability Australia (PWDA), centering the voices and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ people with disabilities. The campaign explores the joy and community found in queer and disabled spaces, where individuals can freely be themselves without fear of discrimination or judgment.

Why it matters

The campaign sheds light on the intersections between the queer and disability communities, highlighting how finding accepting spaces to be one's authentic self can lead to meaningful connections and a deep sense of belonging.

The details

Haley, a PWDA member, shares her personal experiences navigating queer and disabled spaces. She recalls the comfort and joy she found in LGBTQIA+ youth groups and organizations in Florida, where she could freely express her identity without fear. Similarly, Haley describes the understanding and lack of limitations she has experienced in disabled spaces, allowing her to focus on building rich friendships based on shared interests and experiences.

  • Haley grew up in Florida and lived in Miami and Orlando before moving to Australia at age 22.
  • As a teen, Haley attended a regular social group for LGBTQIA+ young people run by Pridelines in Miami.
  • When Haley moved to Orlando for university, she participated in a scholarship and mentorship program for LBT women run by Aqua Foundation for Women.
  • Haley also volunteered at Zebra Coalition, a center for LGBTQIA+ young people in Florida, many of whom were experiencing mental health issues or homelessness.

The players

Haley

A member of People with Disability Australia (PWDA) who shares her personal experiences as a queer and disabled individual.

Pridelines

An organization that ran a regular social group for LGBTQIA+ young people in Miami, Florida.

Aqua Foundation for Women

An organization that provided a scholarship and mentorship program for LBT women in Orlando, Florida.

Zebra Coalition

A center for LGBTQIA+ young people in Florida, many of whom were experiencing mental health issues or homelessness.

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What they’re saying

“I remember feeling a sense of belonging in all of these spaces. But I also remember being moved to tears sometimes when people would enter these spaces and share how these were the only spaces where they could freely be themselves.”

— Haley, PWDA Member

“Some of my most meaningful friendships are with other disabled people. We can skip past the worries of discrimination or accessibility issues and straight into conversations about who we are, what interests us, and enjoying the time we get to spend together.”

— Haley, PWDA Member

What’s next

The InFocus: Queer & Disabled digital storytelling campaign will continue to feature more personal narratives from LGBTQIA+ individuals with disabilities, highlighting the shared experiences and joys found in these intersectional communities.

The takeaway

The InFocus campaign showcases the deep sense of community and belonging that can be found when individuals are able to freely express their authentic selves, without fear of discrimination or judgment. These stories illustrate the power of creating inclusive spaces that celebrate diversity and foster meaningful connections.