Disability Language and Etiquette

Ableism is prejudice and discrimination against people with disabilities that is based on the notion that being nondisabled is preferred. It tends to focus on "fixing" disabled people and/or offering pity instead of recognizing that the environment is what needs to be "fixed".

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• What is ableism, and what is its impact?

Treat disabled students with the same respect as their nondisabled peers. 

• Do not make assumptions
• Avoid stereotypes and microaggressions
• Have consistent expectations 
• Maintain confidentiality

• Ensure that the textbook you choose is accessible or has an accessible version
• Create accessible lecture materials using the guidelines provided (link to course accessibility checklist)
• Make students aware of the alternate format tool built into Canvas Ally (link here to instructure)
• Report accessibility barriers when you encounter them
• Make time to speak to students who have provided letters of accommodation to learn more about their accessibility needs

• Person-first Language: This language model emphasizes the person and not the disability. It is based on the idea that the person is not identified by their disability. (example: person who is blind)
• Identity-first Language: This language model focuses on the disability first as an indicator that the disability is part of the person's identity. (example: blind person)

Although both language models are respectful and appropriate, it is recommended that you use the model that is preferred by the person or group that you are working with. When you are unsure, using a mixed language approach is recommended. This approach is what you will often see on websites and in textbooks.

• Ableist language: This refers to using disability language as an insult, using language that treats disability as something to be pitied, and using language that refers to disabled people as inspirational because of their disability. 
  • Examples: suffering from..., afflicted by...
• Antiquated terminology: These are terms that were often born from the medical model of disability where the focus was on diagnosis and treatment. 
  • Examples: handicap, mental illness, midget, low-functioning, hearing impaired
• Condescending euphemisms: These reinforce the idea that disability is something that should not be mentioned, and therefore something to be ashamed of. 
  • Examples: differently-abled, handi-capable
• Offensive language: This language is often used in a joking manner. Be sure to avoid it at all costs!
  • Examples: crazy, retarded, lame
• Stereotypes: This is language that reinforces the idea that being disabled makes you "less than" in some way. It is often language that refers to non-disabled people.
  • Examples: normal, able-bodied