This model is speaking out for disability education and reproductive justice
FEMINIST sat down with Syanne to learn more about her stance on body neutrality, reproductive health, and the connections between feminism and disability education.
Syanne Centeno-Bloom is a model, disability rights activist, and a powerful voice in political science. Beyond modeling, Syanne serves as a dedicated council member for Courage for America and actively confronts extremist ideologies in her work. She holds an associate’s degree in history and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in political science. Through her activism, Syanne promotes active political participation to create a more inclusive world for all.
What does feminism mean to you?
Feminism, to me, means striving for equality and equity across all identities, including disabled, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC communities. It signifies valuing and respecting women and femme-presenting people as much as men. It encompasses equal pay, bodily autonomy, accessibility, the right to love who we choose, and the fundamental right to life without oppression. Feminism is about creating a world where everyone can exist freely and authentically, without fear of discrimination or marginalization.
In your view, how are feminism and disability education interconnected?
Feminism and disability education are interconnected due to the intersectional nature of human identities. The experiences of being a woman and being disabled often overlap, creating unique challenges and perspectives that cannot be fully addressed by one movement without the other. Without this intersectional approach, conversations would be dominated by men and the patriarchy, leaving out our voices. Women are already at heightened risk of being victimized, and this risk is exacerbated for disabled women and femme-presenting individuals. Feminism and disability education are linked because they both strive for liberation, equality, and the right to exist in one's body without facing discrimination or oppression. To move toward a more equitable and inclusive future, it is crucial to recognize that disabled individuals are also women and must be included in discussions and decision-making processes about feminism and women's rights. Our voices and experiences are essential in shaping policies and practices that ensure true equality and inclusivity for all.
You’ve been modeling since you were a teenager. Did your modeling career change after you started using a wheelchair? If so, how?
Oh yes, it changed significantly! Before my conditions led to wheelchair use, I hadn’t really modeled much. Strangely, using the wheelchair brought me back into modeling after a couple of years out of the industry. I applied to Zebedee Talent Management, which focuses on talent with disabilities, and it took off from there. It's cathartic in a way. However, I now face a new layer of discrimination. Being a woman of color was already challenging, but the wheelchair often becomes the sole focus for brands and designers. This experience has made me advocate more for authentic representation. It’s frustrating how one campaign featuring a wheelchair user or model with a limb difference is considered enough for the entire year. Not to mention that most jobs have been inaccessible to me in some way. The industry's hypocrisy has become more apparent to me, and it's made me resent it. I think most of us, especially women, resent the industry in general.
We really admire your advocacy for body neutrality. Could you share why you prefer the term “body neutrality” over “body positivity”?
To be honest, I use both terms. I think there has to be an element of both to reach a prolonged state of self-acceptance. There are things about body positivity that I like, such as the idea of “faking it till you make it”—I’m going to say I’m beautiful and talented even if I don’t believe it. People might think that’s cheesy, but affirmations have made a huge difference in how I view myself. Positive self-talk has led me to have more periods of self-acceptance, no matter how I look. The way we talk to ourselves matters as much as the way we talk to others. If you are abusive to yourself, you will feel bad most of the time.
On the other hand, body neutrality understands that, as a human being who has been wired to hate her own body, I will feel that way sometimes. As someone with chronic illnesses and disabilities, I will be angry that I cannot function like everyone else, and there is nothing wrong with feeling that. Body positivity helps me out of the dark hole that the media can put me in when I don’t see authentic representation. Both body positivity and body neutrality are important for maintaining a healthy self-image.
Your openness and vulnerability in sharing your experiences with miscarriage and how reproductive health impacts disabled folks has helped so many people on their own journeys. What changes do you hope to see in the future regarding reproductive health care for disabled individuals?
There are many changes I hope to see in the future regarding reproductive care for disabled individuals. Increased accessibility in doctor’s offices is crucial; it's 2024, yet many wheelchair users still struggle to fit into examination rooms because they’re often too small. Transportation is another significant issue for those with mobility problems.
Additionally, doctors and medical personnel need training to work effectively with patients with various disabilities, both visible and non-visible. Disabled individuals are often treated as if their reproductive rights don't matter, leading to infantilization and exclusion from conversations about abortion rights.
A disturbing fact is that forced sterilization of disabled folks is still an issue, which is a form of eugenics. According to the National Women’s Law Center, more than 30 states in the U.S. have laws that allow sterilization of disabled individuals without their consent. This practice highlights the need for stringent protections of reproductive rights for disabled people. Our reproductive rights have always been under attack, and I hope to see abortion rights activists and organizations including us in the conversation.
You’re also the author of a children’s book called Zabrina the Zebra! What do you hope that readers of the book will take away?
I hope readers will take away a deeper understanding and appreciation of the experiences of individuals with disabilities. Zabrina's journey is about embracing her unique identity and overcoming societal obstacles and physical limitations to achieve her dreams. Through her story, I want to convey that disabilities should not limit one’s potential. I hope children learn the importance of self-acceptance, resilience, and the value of diversity. Ultimately, I want Zabrina's story to inspire readers to celebrate their differences and pursue their aspirations with confidence. While "Zabrina the Zebra" is a children's book, its message is universal. It’s not just for children or people with disabilities; it's for everyone. I hope readers of all ages and backgrounds can find inspiration in Zabrina's story and gain a greater understanding of the importance of inclusivity and empathy. Additionally, there aren't many stories about conditions being diagnosed later in life or a child not knowing why they feel sick. This book provides representation for those who experience these challenges, allowing them to see their stories reflected. I’m actually working on another picture book about disabilities now, just looking for a publisher!
What actions can our FEMINIST community members take to help create a more inclusive and accessible society?
Supporting legislation that mandates accessible design standards in new constructions and renovations is crucial. Examine the buildings you enter and assess their accessibility. If something isn’t meeting ADA requirements, report it to the civil rights office through their online form or by phone. Collaborating with disability advocacy groups can amplify efforts and support campaigns focused on accessibility. Raising awareness through social media and community platforms can highlight the importance of accessible infrastructure. Follow disabled content creators and activists, and ensure activism events are accessible and inclusive of disabled activists in all causes. We don’t need saviors, we need allies.
