Disability and Religious Diversity (PDF)

Author Darla Schumm: Darla Schumm is an Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Hollins University
Author Michael J. Stoltzfus: Michael J. Stoltzfus is a Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at Valdosta State University

"As much as scholarship on religion and disability focuses on the diversity of human bodies and experiences, it must also be attentive to the wide variety of religious traditions that form and inform us. This work is an important step in recognizing and affirming the religious diversity of our global community, and as such is long overdue." - Deborah Creamer, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Iliff School of Theology

"This text skillfully captures the moments of intersection between religion and disability and shares the resulting disconnect or synergy in an honest and compelling way. Narratives and inquiry combine to inform and encourage rich discussion and debate about the inclusion of people with disabilities, or lack thereof, in diverse religious traditions." - Kimberly Tanner, Director, Access Office, Valdosta State University

"For those in the academy, this text fills a significant gap in the area of religion and disability. While there is an increasing body of literature within Christianity and Judaism that deals with issues of disability, little has been written from the perspective of other religious traditions. This volume, then, represents a significant step in exploring the intersection between disability studies and particular religions and spiritual practices. Hopefully it will spark further, more systematic analyses of the positive and negative contributions each religion makes to disability studies and to the lives of persons who live with a disability." - Kathy Black, Claremont School of Theology