Let’s Talk Disability: Sharing Stories, Building Community

A Conversation Over Coffee Sparks a Movement

Five years ago, a group of women met for coffee to celebrate a birthday. As they gathered, they shared stories of their lives, their disabilities, their challenges, and their triumphs. They laughed, they cried, and they supported one another with words of encouragement and solidarity.

Though each of them had a different disability, they understood each other in ways that many others couldn’t. As they talked, they began to wonder: What if more people could hear these stories? How could sharing their experiences help break down barriers and foster understanding?

As a joke, they tossed around the idea of hosting a show—standing on a stage and telling their stories for all to hear.

The Birth of Let’s Talk Disability

One year later, in May 2022, Let’s Talk Disability, Butte was born. In partnership with the Orphan Girl Theatre, Ability Montana hosted the first production, where many of those original women—and a few more—bravely took the stage. Each participant shared a personal monologue about their life and disability, standing in front of a crowd eager to listen and learn.

Growing and Expanding

Since its inception, Let’s Talk Disability has continued to evolve. In 2024, the event expanded beyond Butte, with the first Let’s Talk Disability, Helena production at Carroll College. Community members from Helena embraced the same format, courageously sharing their stories on stage.

More Than Just a Performance

Ability Montana believes this storytelling platform has the power to transform communities. The goal is to foster dialogue, promote understanding, and create awareness about the lived experiences of people with disabilities. By hearing these often-overlooked perspectives, audience members gain a deeper sense of empathy and insight into the realities of their neighbors.

Participating in Let’s Talk Disability is a deeply personal and transformative experience. Each participant spends around eight weeks developing their story, working individually and as a group. This process builds a strong sense of connection and support among participants—bonds that last long after the final curtain call.

For many, crafting and sharing their story is a powerful journey of self-reflection. It allows them to explore what their disability means to them and how they want to share their experiences with the world.

Join Us at This Year’s Events

Want to experience Let’s Talk Disability firsthand? Join us at one of this year’s productions!

Butte – April 17 & 18 at Montana Tech, 6:00 PM
Helena – May 15 & 16 at Carroll College, 7:00 PM

Tickets are available at abilitymt.org

Want to Share Your Story?

We are always looking for new participants! If you are interested in being a part of Let’s Talk Disability, reach out to us—we would love to hear from you!

Together, we can break down stigma, foster inclusion, and create a community where everyone belongs.

Contact us: abilitymt.org