Speaking with Awareness

"People-First" Language

Language shapes the way those around us speak and act toward one another and conveys the respect we have for others. The use of appropriate language about people with disabilities can be an important tool in building a community that accepts all people.

Appropriate language is both sensitive and accurate. VSA arts promotes the use of “people-first” language — language that puts the focus on the individual, rather than on a disability. “People-first” language helps us remember that people are unique individuals and that their abilities or disabilities are only part of who they are.

Suggestions To Improve Access and Positive Interactions

• Avoid euphemisms such as “physically challenged,” “special needs,” “differently abled” and “handicapable.” Many disability groups object to these phrases because they are considered condescending and reinforce the idea that disabilities cannot be spoken of in an upfront and direct manner.
• Do not sensationalize a disability by using terms such as “afflicted with,” “suffers from” or “crippled with.” These expressions are considered offensive and inaccurate to people with disabilities.
• When referring to people who use wheelchairs, avoid terms such as “wheelchair bound” or “confined to a wheelchair.” Wheelchairs do not confine people with disabilities. They provide freedom of movement to assist individuals in traveling throughout the community.
• When writing or speaking about people with disabilities, emphasize abilities rather than limitations, focusing on a person’s accomplishments, creative talents or skills. This guideline does not mean avoiding mention of a person’s disability, but doing so in a respectful manner and only when relevant to the situation.