Neocolonialism's perpetuation of institutional life of disabled individuals through the rhetoric of philanthropy and charity

Kate Prendella, Roseanne M. Mirabella

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

This chapter utilizes critical disability theory, voluntourism studies, and neocolonial theory to discuss how the actions of philanthropists and non-profit organizations from the Minority World have perpetuated the global marginalization and displacement of children, particularly disabled children. Tying the resurgence of orphanages to recolonization, we explore the role of these neoliberal institutions as sites of violence towards and control of disabled bodies. We explore the ways in which the charity rhetoric of disability popularized through media intersects with and abets the orphanage industrial complex supported by and dependent upon voluntourism, describing the ways in which the orphan tourism industry depends upon the exploitation of children to fuel its financial needs. Recognizing the toll that this system exacts on children, particularly children with disabilities, we end with a call for recognition and action to challenge and demolish this system of oppression and stigmatization centering the needs of children in this discourse.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationHandbook of Critical Perspectives on Nonprofit Organizing and Voluntary Action
Subtitle of host publicationConcepts, Applications and Future Directions
PublisherEdward Elgar Publishing Ltd.
Pages231-246
Number of pages16
ISBN (Electronic)9781800371811
ISBN (Print)9781800371804
DOIs
StatePublished - 22 Aug 2024

Keywords

  • Critical disability theory
  • Deinstitutionalization
  • Neocolonial theory
  • Orphan industrial complex
  • Popular culture
  • Voluntourism

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