Abstract

Metaphors about disability have been embedded in language and images for centuries. This chapter investigates selected US political cartoons from the nineteenth century to 2015 as a way to investigate the intersection of disability metaphors within news media political cartoon practices. Through a critical examination of the cartoon images using Berger’s media analysis technique, this chapter illustrates how the use of disability metaphors in political cartoons contributes to the cultural framing of disability. Also discussed is how disabled cartoonists, writers, performers and media makers create counter-narratives about these disability metaphors as a way to combat ableism and feed a growing and vibrant disability culture.