Speaking Respectfully About Disability

Use People First Language

Utilizing People First Language (PFL) is a way to emphasize the person, not the disability they live with.

Examples of People First Language include saying:

• “Person with a disability” instead of “disabled person” or “handicapped person”
• “Person who uses a wheelchair” instead of “crippled” or “confined to a wheelchair”
• “Person who is blind” instead of “the blind”

Be Aware of Outdated Language

The language surrounding disabilities has changed over time. Although some words and phrases have been commonly used in the past, they can be disrespectful towards people with disabilities and should be avoided. Some words and phrases to avoid using include:

• Handicap/Handicapped. Instead, when referring to accommodations for people with disabilities, use the term “accessible.”
• Differently-abled/Special Needs.  Both of these terms are euphemistic and it is typically more appropriate to say “disability” or “person with a disability.”
• Cripple/Crippled. Instead, use the term “person with a physical/mobility disability.”
• Retard/Retarded. Instead, use the term “person with a cognitive/developmental disability.”

Avoid Adjectives that Limit and Alienate

Again, it is important to remember that people with disabilities are people first. Avoid using these words to describe people with disabilities:

• Limited
• Abnormal
• Impaired
• Afflicted
• Poor/Unfortunate