Inclusive Language for Talking About People With Intellectual Disabilities (2023)

FAQs

What is disability inclusive language examples? ›

For example, we can use expressions such as “children with albinism”, “students with dyslexia”, “women with intellectual disabilities” and, of course, “persons with disabilities”. However, the people-first rule does not necessarily apply to all types of disabilities.

Rather than using terms such as disabled person, handicapped people, a crippled person, use terms such as people/persons with disabilities, a person with a disability, or a person with a visual impairment.

Always focus on the person, not the disability. Mention the disability only if it is directly relevant to the context in which you are speaking. Ask the person how they prefer to be described with regards the disability or medical issue. They may use a different term to what is considered inclusive language.

Using inclusive language for disabilities is a means to discuss or speak to any person with disabilities in a way that respects their personhood. It is about using respectful terminology and addressing a person in a way that puts them first and focuses on their participation in life and society.

Examples of Inclusive Language

Using gendered language only when necessary, and always asking for preferred pronouns and using them. Not referencing age unless absolutely necessary. Changing the focus from disability to accessibility.

It's okay to ask. If that isn't possible, use person-first language or refer to a person by their name. PWDA, government, and non-government institutions predominantly use person-first language when referring to people with disability. This is to avoid unnecessary focus on a person's impairment.

The language we use can reinforce negative stereotypes, or it can challenge them. We may sometimes, however inadvertently and unintentionally, cause offence and reinforce stereotypes, which perpetuates discrimination.

Consider joining national business and disability networks or employers' federations – peer support is very helpful. Disability awareness training makes employees more confident about communicating with disabled people – and your working environment more welcoming as a result.

What is an example of disability inclusive development? ›

This includes ensuring all programs and their benefits are accessible for people with disabilities at all stages, from planning through implementation to monitoring and evaluation. Examples of such programs include disaster risk reduction strategies, water and sanitation programs, or climate change adaptation.

Inclusive Language Definition

The Guidelines for Inclusive Language, published by the Linguistic Society of America (LSA), open_in_new define inclusive language as language that “acknowledges diversity, conveys respect to all people, is sensitive to differences, and promotes equal opportunities.”

An inclusive culture provides equal access to growth opportunities. Employees with disabilities want professional development opportunities, just like anyone else. This includes conferences and trainings, as well as being sponsored for mentoring programs.

Inclusive language is not about impinging on free speech or political correctness; it is about communicating in a way that is accessible and respectful and values, includes and empowers all members of your audience. Language is dynamic and fluid and the meaning and connotations of words can change rapidly.

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.

The 3 Cs Inclusive Practices Model – Culture, Collaboration, and Coaching.

He was opposed to the use of inclusive language in liturgy. Using 'inclusive' language is therefore redundant at best. They could have reflected in their demeanour the uplifting and inclusive language of their manifesto.

And when it comes to Inclusive Language, we recommend you use all four of our guideline categories: respectful language, gender-neutral language, person-first language, and writing conventions.

Differently-abled, Special, Gifted Use “person with disability” or “disabled person” instead. Terms like “differently-abled,” although well-meaning, can be received as “condescending, offensive or simply a way of avoiding talking about disability” [NCDJ].

Person first language emphasizes the person before the disability, for example “person who is blind” or “people with spinal cord injuries.” Identity first language puts the disability first in the description, e.g., “disabled” or “autistic." Person first or identify first language is equally appropriate depending on ...

Why is it important to use people first language when addressing a person with a disability? ›

Placing the person first and the disability second helps eliminate stereotypes that can form, and it emphasizes the individuality, equality, and dignity of these individuals. Sentences that include terms like "the disabled" neglect the human aspect of a person's disability.

Person-First vs.

Person-first language puts the person before the disability (i.e. person who has cerebral palsy). Identity-first language puts the disability before the person (i.e. autistic woman).

For example, some classroom practices may include: providing students with opportunities to share stories of their life, showing students everyday photos of people from different ethnicities making a positive impact when opportunities are presented during instruction, welcoming guest speakers making positive ...

Displaying empathy, patience and positivity towards disability of any form promotes inclusion and openness for the affected individual.

Inclusion, in relation to persons with disabilities, is defined as including individuals with disabilities in everyday activities and ensuring they have access to resources and opportunities in ways that are similar to their non-disabled peers.

These include sustainable water, energy, digital, and transport infrastructure, care sectors, the rural economy, and education and training.

Examples of inclusion are when students with disabilities are educated in the exact schools they would've attended if they didn't have disabilities; or when adults with disabilities fully participate in an employment environment and are engaged as community members.

1) Don't mention a person's gender, ethnicity etc. unless it is relevant. 2) Be gender neutral whenever you aren't speaking about a specific individual. Use they/them instead of she/her or he/him and use terms like chair and humanity instead of chairman and mankind.

How do you interact with individuals in an inclusive way? ›

Inclusive language enables everyone in your organisation to feel valued and respected and able to contribute their talents to drive organisational performance. Speech is a form of action. Whether we like it or not, our words have consequences. They can include or exclude, even if we do not intend them to.

Person first language emphasizes the person before the disability, for example “person who is blind” or “people with spinal cord injuries.” Identity first language puts the disability first in the description, e.g., “disabled” or “autistic." Person first or identify first language is equally appropriate depending on ...

Disability-inclusive development means that all stages of development processes are inclusive of and accessible to persons with disabilities. It requires that all persons be afforded equal access to education, health care services, work and employment, and social protection, among others.

Placing the person first and the disability second helps eliminate stereotypes that can form, and it emphasizes the individuality, equality, and dignity of these individuals. Sentences that include terms like "the disabled" neglect the human aspect of a person's disability.

Person-first language (e.g., “person with a disability”) is largely considered the default or most respectful terminology to use, as it puts the person first before their disability; it is a way to separate someone's diagnosis from their personhood.

What are the communication methods in intellectual disability? ›

Communication styles vary among individuals with an intellectual disability. Some may have verbal language, some sign language and others use non-verbal communication styles such as gestures, vocalisations or even eye movements.

Speak in clear, short sentences and use simple words. Pause to enable the person to process what you are saying. Avoid long, complex sentences, technical words or jargon. Ask one question at a time and provide adequate time for the person to process the question and then formulate and communicate their response.