Welcome to DisabiliTEA: Conversations for Change. This special video edition of the Finding Avalon Podcast features authentic chats over hot cups of tea with Disabled, chronically ill and neurodivergent changemakers, citizens and our allies.
Episode 7 features Finn Letourneau, a multiply-disabled musician and music teacher who brings their unique lived experience as a disabled person with marginalized queer identities. They’re passionate about people with invisible disabilities and especially young people being taken seriously for their experiences with disability, chronic illness and neurodivergence.
“There’s many different aspects of my identity that aren’t fitting with society’s norms. I’ve had to go through different phases of understanding and accepting this reality about myself. And after that, then externalizing that to the world and learning how to advocate for those differences.
Finn Letourneau
For me, that began at age 13, realizing that I was bisexual. Then at age 15, realizing that I’m non-binary and changing my name and my pronouns at that age. And then, at age 18, 19, understanding that I’m a polyamorous person by identity. And then in my early 20s, finally accepting that I’m also disabled.
I still don’t have a fully easeful time navigating all of these various identities, but it certainly makes a big difference when folks are willing to engage in dialogues about this and create more visibility with these topics.”
About this Episode
DisabiliTEA: Disability has no age. Take young people seriously! with Finn Letourneau (Season 1, Episode 7)
In this episode, Finn shares about navigating life with multiple mental and physical disabilities, including endometriosis, eczema, environmental allergies, hypermobility, fibromyalgia, ADHD, panic disorder and anxiety. They’ve also faced harmful stigma for their intersecting identity and have faced additional barriers as a young, poor artist.
This conversation sheds light on the realities faced by young disabled people and how we can all contribute to a more understanding and inclusive society through curiosity and empathy – two cornerstones of anti-ableist advocacy.
Key Takeaways:
- Disability can affect anyone regardless of age or appearance.
- Curiosity and humility are meaningful mindsets for supporting marginalized communities.
- Advocacy is exhausting but essential for change. Active allyship lessens the load.
- Healthcare systems often dismiss or gatekeep based on stereotypes.
- Normalizing conversations about disability and chronic illness fosters inclusion.
Watch Finn’s Episode here
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2mzHJeqqIwLMnx4RUBsEGU?si=tGIpfakuRjWp01Y0n5Ljvg
Episode Sponsor
Thanks to this episode’s supporter, we were sent a signature Regency Afternoon Tea Box to try – inspired by Bridgerton. This tea room is one of my favourite places to have a luxurious escape here in Halifax.
Crème is part of Beyond Hospitality Group, offering a refined waterfront dining and signature afternoon tea experience. Blending European charm with modern hospitality, Crème offers curated menus, artisanal pastries, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Thanks Crème for helping us spill the DisabiliTEA!
Learn More
- Finn Letourneau on Instagram
- Subscribe to DisabiliTEA on YouTube
- Follow DisabiliTEA on Spotify
- DisabiliTEA Series Episode List
- Crème Halifax Instagram and Website
- Regions mentioned: British Columbia, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Canada
Thank You / Support a Disabled Creator
Thank you for supporting DisabiliTEA – an award-winning, Disabled-led, Atlantic Canadian program! Every like, share and comment really matters to Disabled creators, helping build a stronger, more inclusive community.
This is an entirely grassroots labour of love where Jenna creates accessible, cost-free public educational resources, without assistance or funding. Here are ways to support Jenna as she continues contributing to inclusive change, community empowerment and disabled justice. Donations are gladly accepted to help cover basic operational costs for the podcast and blog.
Finding Avalon: Storytelling, Advocacy & Life 
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