When Words Collide 2026

Oftentimes, disabled bodies and/or neurodivergent brains are desexualized and/or de-romanticized because of ableist narratives. These narratives also propose that disabled folks are incapable of sharing in the adventure without a “cure." But as disabled and neurodivergent authors, we are the protagonists of our own lives, so why can’t we craft stories that turn these harmful tropes upside down? This panel will discuss how it’s not only plausible but also realistic to put disabled folks as the romantic and heroic leads. We’ll talk about how we don’t need to “fix” bodies and/or minds for these characters to shine!