People First Language

Kathie Snow. (n.d.) A few words about People First Language. Disability is Natural. Retrieved August 1, 2012 from sh09.pdf “People First Language puts the person before the disability and describes what a person has, not who a person is.” “People First Language reflects good manners, not ‘political correctness’ and it was started by individuals who said ‘We are not our disabilities’.” “Old and inaccurate descriptors perpetuate negative stereotypes and generate an incredibly powerful attitudinal barrier – the greatest obstacle facing individuals with disabilities.”

People First Language “Language tends to shape beliefs about a person’s potential needs and desires “ [Hutchinson and McGill, 1992]. The language we use influences the way we see people and the way they see themselves. “Language tends to shape beliefs about a person’s potential needs and desires “ [Hutchinson and McGill, 1992]. The language we use influences the way we see people and the way they see themselves. I WILL SAY: People with disabilities. Cognitive or intellectual disability Mike has autism Accessible parking INSTEAD OF: Handicapped/disabled Mental retardation Mike is autistic Handicapped parking

 Video of People First Language 7 This is part of my social marketing campaign to raise awareness of the importance of utilizing people-first language when referring to people who have developmental or intellectual disabilities

 Jill Egle is an author, international speaker, and self-advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities. 8

“Say This, Not That” Small groups of 2-4 people Read the statement and identify the problem Using People First Language, generate a better way to say the statement Be prepared to share with the whole group

End 30 second timer

“I am the inclusion teacher and will have the sped kids in my class this year.” “I am the inclusion teacher and will have the students with disabilities in my class this year.”

“Molly is a first grade student in my class; she is autistic.” “Molly is a first grade student in my class; she has a diagnosis of autism.”

“Bryant is in special ed. and will be a part of the basketball team this year.” “Bryant receives special education services and will be a part of the basketball team this year.”

“Clay is confined to a wheelchair this year.” “Clay will utilize a wheelchair this year.”

“The school has made additional spaces for handicapped parking.” “The school has made additional spaces for accessible parking.”

“Mrs. Jones will be teaching normal students rather than students receiving special education services.” “Mrs. Jones will be teaching students without disabilities rather than students receiving special education services.”

17

18

19

THANK YOU!!!!