“NOT DISABLED, JUST DIFFERENTLY-ABLED” is the motto-title of this WORKSHOP as it is intended to raise awareness and help us change perspective not only of the way we perceive people with additional needs but of the way it may be faced with exclusion because of the lack of knowledge. As luck would have it, over the years, there has been a shift in the way society views people with special needs from "disabled" rather to "differently-abled". This is a comprehensive phrase that is used to promote a more inclusive and respectful approach to disability, highlighting the unique skills and refreshing perspectives that individuals withspecial needs bring to society.

So, let us all come together in this challenging and thought-provoking exercise of vision and imagination that this WORKSHOP is intended as and place ourselves on both sides of the barrier in a reciprocating process of mutual understanding of nothing more and nothing less than human experiences. Let us all remember and learn of the talent, determination and unique perspectives of the people whose stories have enriched the world and served as inspiration to many. In so doing, future participants are invited to announce their intention to take part inthe event with presentations that explore the cultural and social multiplicity of disability.

Possible papers and/or presentations associated with the topic may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- sight impairment;
- hearing impairment;
- physical disabilities (limitations on a person's physical functioning, mobility, dexterityorstamina);
- mental disabilities (anxiety disorders, dissociative disorders, mood disorders, trauma and stressor-related disorders, neuro-developmental disorders, substance related and addictive disorder);
- cognitive disabilities (intellectual disability; autism spectrum disorders; severe, persistent mental illness; brain injury; stroke; Alzheimer's disease and other dementias);
- inclusion, dialogue and prospective change.

The scope of the “NOT DISABLED, JUST DIFFERENTLY-ABLED” WORKSHOP comprises a broad selection of presentations, studies and research papers in the main branches of Art and Humanities. It focuses on human beings and the culture of disability in Archaeology, Philosophy, History, Linguistics, Literature, Performing and Visual Arts, Architecture, etc.

The ultimate aim of the WORKSHOP is to bring together academics andspecialistsin the field of disability, students and/ or parents whose children deal with some sort of disability so that awareness is raised, expectations become grounded in reality andsocial stereotyping is overcome. Send a 250-word abstract, 5 keywords and a 100-word bio to the workshop organizer, to Lidia Mihaela Necula, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galaţi, at lidia.necula@ugal.ro by 30 October 2023.