People First Language
Think "People First" Language is a reflection of how people see each other. That's why the words we use can hurt. It's also why responsible communicators are now choosing language which reflects the dignity of people with disabilities - words that put the person first, rather than the disability.
Read on for short course on using language that empowers. Think people first. Say "a woman who has a disability" rather than "a disabled woman."
Avoid words like "unfortunate," "afflicted," and "victim." Also, try to avoid casting a person with a disability as a superhuman model of courage. People with disabilities are just people, not tragic figures or demigods.
A developmental disability is not a disease. Do not mention "symptoms," "patients," or "treatment," unless the person you're describing has an illness as well as a disability.
Use common sense. Avoid terms with obvious negative or judgmental connotations, such as "crippled," "deaf and dumb," "lame," and "defective." If you aren't sure how to refer to a person's condition, ask. And, if the disability is not relevant to your conversation, why mention it at all?
Never refer to a person as "confined to a wheelchair." Wheelchairs enable people to escape confinement. A person with a mobility impairment "uses" a wheelchair.
Try to describe people without disabilities as "typical" rather than "normal."
Products
Reinventing the wheel can be very expensive.
That's why the Public Images Network offers its resources to help create
awareness in your community without breaking the budget. We offer
low cost items to help your local disability awareness campaign.
T-Shirts
High quality 100% cotton shirts imprinted with the awareness theme logo. These shirts will complement any public awareness activity. Cost is $12 per shirt.
Pens
The pens are imprinted with the awareness theme logo. They are great for fairs, activities with students, and staff. Priced at just 95¢ each.
Posters
These beautiful, full-color 16 inch X 20 inch posters promote acceptances, respect and awareness of individuals with disabilities. Priced at just $2.50 per poster.
Mugs
These handsome ceramic mugs with a four-color imprint of the awareness theme are perfect for gifts and public awareness events. Cost is $6 per mug or 12 mugs for $60.