Let’s set the record straight on disability and language

The language we use plays an important part in every aspect of our lives. From every day interactions with family and friends, work meetings or on social media, language is at the forefront of everything we do.

The language surrounding disability is a huge area, but it’s something I think that needs to be addressed. Not knowing how to phrase a sentence, wondering if you’ll offend me by using a particular word, or asking whether certain words are in my everyday vocabulary as a disabled person are all instances I’ve experienced on the topic of disability and language. So I wanted to dedicate some space on my blog to this and hopefully set the record straight. As always, I hope this blog post is educational and informative.

I think it’s important to note that every disabled person has their preferred language when it comes to disability, and this is something everyone should always remember.

 

Disability is not a bad word

You don’t need to find other ways of saying the word disability, nor do you need to skirt around the edges. Words such as differently abled perpetuate stereotypes and suggest that the word disability should be avoided at all costs. Don’t find other ways of saying the word disability.

Having a disability is nothing to be ashamed of, in fact, I’m proud of being disabled.

I’ve witnessed people get all flustered when uttering the words disability or disabled when talking to me, as if I might get upset or feel awkward. I am more likely to feel awkward when I can tell that you’re avoiding such language. Trust me, I can tell.

Disability is wonderful. Yes, having a disability is challenging at times, but nothing will take away the joy and pride I feel about being part of the disabled community.

 

Just say the words “disability” or “disabled”

Saying the words disability or disabled shouldn’t make you feel awkward or uneasy. It’s okay to say them out loud. I’m much more likely to notice when people are avoiding these words, than when they aren’t. Hearing the words disability or disabled doesn’t make me bat an eyelid.

If we are comfortable with such language, then there’s no reason for you not to be either.

Having a disability isn’t embarrassing, so why should you be embarrassed when using such language?

The more open and comfortable we all are, the greater chance we have of changing the narrative surrounding disability.

We each have our preferred terminology when it comes to talking about our disability, but if ever you’re in doubt, just ask. There’s no harm in asking.

Oh and…don’t panic!

Speak to us like you would anyone else, and that includes not changing your vocabulary. There is a misconception that you shouldn’t use words such as look, see or watch when talking to blind and vision impaired people like myself, however this is not true at all. These are words that I use every day.

Similarly, wheelchair users commonly say “going for a walk”, and I know the same goes for other disabilities as well.

 

“Disabled people” vs “people with disabilities”

You may see both terms cropping up, but which one is correct?

Well, it’s not as simple as that. There’s no definitive answer.

Some people think that using the phrase “disabled people” implies that people are defined by their disability. Others argue that it highlights the fact that people are disabled by societal barriers, rather than their disability itself.

Some people think that “people with disabilities” is bold and empowering, as it puts the person first, rather than the disability. Others may argue that it doesn’t highlight how a person’s disability has an impact on their life.

Some may use these phrases interchangeably.

Personally, I prefer “disabled people”, as I find myself more connected to the phrase and it has always been my personal preference.

How people choose to talk about their disability is a personal choice, and one that’s individual to every disabled person. We each have our preferences, and reasoning behind the language we use.

 

Be mindful of the language you are using

First and foremost, language matters.

To be fully aware of the language we are using, we need to understand the do’s and don’ts when it comes to talking about disability.

Don’t pity us. Use positive language, rather than negative language. Disabled people aren’t a victim – we are individuals who lead fulfilling lives.

Don’t use language such as ‘suffers from’ as it makes generalised assumptions of how we feel about our disability. I don’t suffer from a vision impairment; I have a vision impairment.

Oh and a note whilst we’re on the topic: saying that you don’t know what you’d do if you were in our situation is not okay.

Remember that our disability doesn’t automatically make us inspirational. Completing every day tasks and simply living our lives is not brave or inspiring. If there is a particular reason you see a disabled person as inspiring then that’s fine, but don’t simply see them in this way just because they have a disability.

Address us in the same way you would anyone else. At the end of the day, we are individuals. And that’s that.

 

Respect our language preferences

Respecting disabled people’s language preferences is one of the most important things you can do. Pay attention to the words and phrases we use.

Specific words may be used to refer to disability in certain situations, however that doesn’t necessarily mean that these are the words that disabled people use ourselves. One example of this is the term “special needs” which is commonly used within educational settings. Many of us don’t see our disabilities as “special”. As a disabled person, I don’t like that phrase, it makes me feel uncomfortable. We want the same access as everyone else, so why does this make it special?

Being polite and empathetic of the language we prefer is not only the right thing to do, it also shows a great deal of respect and understanding.

Don’t question our language preferences, there’s probably a reason behind them.

Have an open mind, listen and take note of what we’re saying.

 

I don’t want people to feel like they are treading on eggshells when it comes to the language surrounding disability.

All I ask is for people to be mindful when they are considering the language they use when talking about disability.

People won’t always get it right, and we don’t expect you to. As long as what you’re saying is meant with good intensions, then that’s what matters. We would much rather you spark conversation, rather than avoid us and not talk to us completely. Most importantly, talk to us in the same way you would anyone else.

We should be aware of what we’re saying, and that includes talking about disability.

 

Holly x