Did You Know Haben Girma? The Advocate Redefining Disability
Haben Girma has shattered countless barriers, from becoming Harvard’s first deaf-blind law graduate to emerging as a passionate advocate for redefining disability. Her life is a profound example of how resilience and advocacy can transform lives and shape a more inclusive world.
Early Life
Born in California to immigrant parents from Eritrea and Ethiopia, Haben Girma grew up as a deaf-blind individual, having lost her vision and hearing as a result of a progressive condition.
Her early experiences navigating the world designed for able-bodied individuals shaped her determination to challenge misconceptions about disability. From a young age, Haben learned to embrace innovation and creativity to communicate and engage with the world around her.
Although living in the States gave Haben benefits like civil rights laws and accessible technology that her older brother, who is also Deafblind, didn’t have growing up in Eritrea, Haben’s life was not easy either. She faced adversity in her education as she stated in an interview in 2013 –
“Many schools didn’t know how to teach me, and I was often told I would not succeed”.
The First Deafblind Harvard Law Graduate
Haben Girma’s academic journey led her to Harvard Law School, where she became the first deaf-blind graduate in the institution’s history. While navigating the challenges of academia, she developed innovative strategies to access information. Using assistive technology, including a digital Braille device, Haben created an inclusive learning environment for herself, proving that disabilities need not limit success.
Haben emphasises the importance of accessibility and inclusion:
“People with disabilities drive innovation.”
She mentions that investing in inclusion creates benefits for everyone, and organisations that prioritise accessibility benefit in gaining access to a broader audience.
As a disability rights lawyer, Haben has worked to hold institutions accountable for upholding laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that accessibility is recognised as a fundamental right.
A Voice for Disability Rights
Haben’s advocacy goes beyond legal battles. She is a sought-after speaker who uses storytelling to challenge stereotypes and educate audiences about disability rights.
Whether addressing audiences at the United Nations or TED, she conveys a powerful message of inclusion – that people with disabilities have the power to innovate and contribute and when society creates barriers, it loses out on those contributions.
Her memoir, Haben: The Deafblind Woman Who Conquered Harvard Law, offers an intimate glimpse into her life. Through humour and heartfelt storytelling, she shares how she navigated a world often inaccessible to deaf-blind individuals. The book has become a source of inspiration for readers worldwide, demonstrating that accessibility is not only a right but also a pathway to unlocking human potential.
Breaking Barriers in Technology and Innovation
Haben’s work is not limited to law and advocacy. She is a pioneer in integrating technology to enhance accessibility. From using a refreshable Braille display to creating adaptive communication tools, Haben has demonstrated how technology can bridge gaps and foster inclusion.
Her advocacy has influenced the likes of tech giants like Apple and Microsoft to prioritise accessibility in their products, paving the way for more inclusive digital experiences.
“Programmers, technology designers – they have an incredible power to increase access for people with disabilities.”
Haben asserts in a previous interview,
“And I hope they use it.”
Recognition and Impact: A Global Inspiration
Haben’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as a White House Champion of Change by President Obama. She has been featured in major media outlets like Forbes, TIME, and The Washington Post, amplifying her message of inclusion on a global stage.
Haben’s Lasting Legacy
Haben Girma’s story is more than an individual journey; it’s a powerful reminder that accessibility and inclusion are essential for a just society. Her tireless advocacy has reshaped perceptions of disability, proving that innovation and determination can overcome any barrier.
As we celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in December, let Haben Girma’s story inspire us to champion inclusion in all aspects of life. Her work reminds us that everyone has something valuable to contribute—and that when we create a world that includes everyone, we all benefit.
– Written by Elodie Whyte for Spring ACT
