Why Disability Stories Matter: A Director’s Perspective

As the director of the ReelAbilities Film Festival: Greater Washington, one of my greatest passions is bringing the stories of people with disabilities into the spotlight. This festival isn’t just an event—it’s a platform for voices that have too often been overlooked in the media, and it’s something I hold very close to my heart. I believe that showcasing the films and stories of people with disabilities is vital, not only to raise awareness, but to celebrate the richness and diversity of our shared human experience.  
 
Growing up, I didn’t see many stories that reflected the experiences of people with disabilities. When they were portrayed, it often felt like the focus was solely on challenges or the notion of overcoming disability, without highlighting the complexity of their lives and the vast potential within this community. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how important it is to shift the narrative—to show that people with disabilities are not just defined by their disabilities, but by their passions, their abilities, and their unique stories. This realization drives everything I do at the festival. 

One of the main reasons I’m so passionate about this festival is because of its power to break down stereotypes. Media representation has a profound impact on how society views different groups of people, and historically, people with disabilities have been underrepresented or misrepresented. By curating a festival that showcases the real, diverse lives of people with disabilities, I hope to contribute to changing the conversation. These films show individuals in all their humanity—working, creating, dreaming, and living just like everyone else. Through the art of storytelling, we can challenge misconceptions, elevate these voices, and ensure that people with disabilities are seen for who they truly are complex, dynamic, and inspiring. 

Film has always been a tool for connection. It allows us to walk in someone else’s shoes, see the world through their eyes, and feel their emotions. In a world where understanding differences is crucial, I believe film is one of the most powerful ways to foster empathy. When we watch a film about a person with a disability, we are given the chance to connect on a human level. We laugh, we cry, we celebrate, and we grieve—all while learning about experiences different from our own. These stories don’t just belong to people with disabilities—they belong to all of us, because they speak to the universal truths about what it means to be human. 

At the ReelAbilities Film Festival, we are not just screening films; we are creating an experience that sparks conversation. After most screenings, we offer interactive programming and discussions that allow people to reflect on what they’ve seen and engage with others. These conversations are vital because they bring people together—people with and without disabilities—and create an opportunity for shared learning and growth. This, to me, is the heart of the festival: building community through understanding, acceptance, and mutual respect. 
 
Ultimately, my hope is that this festival will inspire change. Change in how we view people with disabilities, change in how we include them in our communities, and change in the way we celebrate their contributions to society. By showing these films, I believe we are not only giving a platform to amazing artists and storytellers, but we are also opening doors for a more inclusive and compassionate world.  
 
At the end of the day, the stories we choose to tell—and the way we tell them—shape our society. It’s an honor and a privilege to be a part of a festival that makes sure these stories are told. And I couldn’t be prouder to be part of something that celebrates the extraordinary abilities of people with disabilities, one film at a time. 

See you at the movies!
Paul Marengo
Director, ReelAbilities Film Festival: Greater Washington

ReelAbilities Film Schedule

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