28 April 2022—31 March 2024

Disability Activism in Bristol: pioneers, protests and progress from the 1980s to now

Bristol has been a vital city in disability activism, but this history has been largely unwritten. Until now.

This brand new display is a collaboration with Bristol Disability Equality Forum.

A portrait of an older woman stood holding a walking stick against a rocky background

Portrait by David Constantine

Activists in the 1980s and 1990s put Disabled people at the heart of decision making for Disabled people. This display is no different.

The research and interviews were carried out by young Disabled volunteers. The themes, design and feel of the museum display have all been guided by the experiences of Disabled young people. The images were taken by Bristol-based photographer David Constantine.

The activists celebrated in the display changed the lives of tens of thousands of Bristolians. It’s time their stories were told.

Disability Activism in Bristol is a small display located in the foyer of Floor 01 at M Shed.