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- As a rule, always use language that is gender-neutral and culturally sensitive. There are also language considerations to keep in mind when you talk about disability and accessibility. Be aware that the words you use can be very powerful: they can both help and hurt. Some words can make people feel welcome, included, and respected.
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Competing views on person-first language. These guidance modules use “person-first” language when describing persons with disabilities. We use it to emphasize the person rather than the disability. For example, instead of saying “disabled persons,” we say “persons with disabilities.”.
Identity-first language focuses on the person’s disability identity. For example, “disabled person,” “Deaf person” or “blind person.” Some countries like New Zealand encourage identity-first language. This is based on what the New Zealand Disability Strategy Revision Reference Group says.
For people with disabilities and others in the disability community, the language used to describe identity and lived experience can be deeply personal. Words and concepts are loaded with histories and meanings.
Jul 29, 2022 · In this post, let’s explore a few (not all) of the most common disability-inclusive language mistakes and how you can use language that lifts and includes everyone. There is no one-size-fits-all answer regarding language surrounding disability. However, some general guidelines can be helpful.
1. USE PEOPLE-FIRST LANGUAGE. People-first language is the most widely accepted language for referring to persons with disabilities. It is also the language used in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
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We hope that this Inclusive Language Guide helps build an understanding of the ways language can be used to welcome and acknowledge the diverse peoples across campus, at the afiliated colleges, and in society. At Western University, the primary language used is English due to the colonial history of the establishment of the City of London.
Whether you are a person with a disability, family member, friend, teacher, service provider, or member of the media, we encourage you to continually look for feedback about your word choice from the Disability Community and practice the language tips provided in this guide. We can all
