"Describing words used often enough become defining words."

Too often, we fail to realize the power of our words to empower or limit people with disabilities.  While having a disability is a part of who a person might be, it is not the whole of any person.  However, when we use phrases like "autistic child," "disabled adult," and "wheelchair-bound friend," we are using a person's disability to define them and, in turn, limit them.

People-first Languague is the first step in establishing an atmosphere of acceptance and empowerment. Make it a habit to put the person before the disability.  Say "child with autism," "adult with a disability," or "friend who uses a wheelchair."  The next step of course is to learn a person's name and refer to them by that instead of bringing the disability to the forefront every time.

For more information, click the links below:

Click here to download People First Language - In Depth.
Click here to download People First Language - In Brief.
Click here to download People First Language - Chart.

*Special thanks to Kathie Snow (www.disabilityisnatural.com) for allowing us to use this information.