Bechdel test for disability representation

[potofsoup]

The other day I came across on tumblr this post, which contains within it, a great "Bechdel Test" for Disability Representation:

1) There’s a Disabled character
Just one necessary, ‘cause a lot of Abled writers like to stick us in flocks of (what they perceive as) “our own kind,” and a lot of disabled people are the only ones in their immediate family or (mainstream) classroom.

2) Who wants something for themselves
Rather than being an “inspiration” for an abled person, or the proverbial cat to be rescued in a “save the cat” scenario, to prove the hero’s goodness.

3) Besides Revenge, Cure, or Death,
In other words, the thing they want is not defined by their disability.

4) And tries to get it.

And I love it SO MUCH because I feel like it can also be cross-applied to measure other forms of representation, as in:
1) The character exists
2) and wants something for themselves
3) besides the standard tropes for that type of character
4) and tries to get it

#2 and 4 are basically a test of "are they a story-driving character in their own right?", and #3 really allows the character to move beyond the dominant narrative about that type of character. Do women get to be something more than a supportive mother, sister or daughter? Does the Asian character get to be good at something besides math or move beyond the immigrant/orientalizing narrative?

(And no, MCU, Helen Cho doesn't count, even if AoU marginally passed the Bechdel test on a technicality)

Comments

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[minoanmiss]

oh WELL SAID! *copies down*

[yhlee]

This is really cogently put, thank you.

[potofsoup]

<3

[shipperslist]

This is awesome!

Would it be okay if I shared this around?