Advocating Person First Language

Summary

The video discusses the importance of using person-first language when referring to individuals with disabilities, emphasizing that disabilities should be viewed as attributes rather than defining traits. By prioritizing terms like 'persons with autism' instead of 'autistic persons,' we promote dignity and respect. The speaker highlights the need for sensitivity to the feelings of those with disabilities while acknowledging cultural exceptions for the deaf and blind communities, where identity-first language may be preferred. Ultimately, the message calls for mindfulness in communication to foster inclusivity and understanding for all individuals.

Takeaways

• 😀 Person-first language emphasizes the individual before their disability, promoting respect.
• 😀 Using phrases like 'persons with disabilities' acknowledges that disabilities are just attributes.
• 😀 Disabilities should be considered as adjectives, not nouns, in our conversations.
• 😀 Everyone, regardless of their abilities, is equal and deserves to be treated with dignity.
• 😀 Sensitivity in language fosters understanding and compassion towards individuals with disabilities.
• 😀 The use of person-first language can help mitigate stigma associated with disabilities.
• 😀 Cultural acceptance may influence the preference for person-first or identity-first language.
• 😀 The deaf and blind communities may have different language preferences based on cultural identity.
• 😀 It is crucial to be mindful of our language choices when addressing or discussing disabilities.
• 😀 Promoting person-first language contributes to a more inclusive and supportive society.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the discussion in the transcript?

The main focus is on how to avoid offensive or demeaning language when addressing persons with disabilities.

What is person-first language?

Person-first language is a way of speaking that prioritizes the individual before their disability, emphasizing that the disability is just one attribute of the person.

Why is it important to use person-first language?

Using person-first language is important because it promotes respect and acknowledges that individuals with disabilities are more than just their disabilities.

Can you give examples of person-first language?

Examples include saying 'persons with autism' or 'persons with ADHD' instead of labeling someone solely by their disability.

What does the speaker mean by stating that disabilities should be seen as attributes?

The speaker means that disabilities should be viewed as characteristics of a person rather than defining them entirely, highlighting the individual's full humanity.

What are the cultural exceptions mentioned in the discussion?

Cultural exceptions refer to the preferences within some communities, such as the deaf and blind, where individuals may prefer identity-first language (e.g., 'deaf person' or 'blind person').

How can language impact the feelings of persons with disabilities?

Language can significantly impact feelings by either reinforcing negative stereotypes and demeaning perceptions or by promoting respect and understanding.

What is the speaker's call to action for the audience?

The speaker urges the audience to be sensitive and mindful of their language choices to foster an inclusive and respectful environment for persons with disabilities.

Why is sensitivity in language highlighted in the discussion?

Sensitivity in language is highlighted because it plays a crucial role in how individuals with disabilities perceive themselves and how society views them.

What is the overall message the speaker wants to convey?

The overall message is to promote awareness and sensitivity towards the language we use when addressing persons with disabilities, fostering respect and inclusion.