How we write about disabilities — and people with disabilities — matters, whether we’re writing about disability issues broadly or about our own experiences. The ADA National Network has made available a resource for writers on this topic. The guide includes tips like:
- Ask to find out if an individual is willing to disclose their disability.
- Emphasize abilities, not limitations.
- In general, refer to the person first and the disability second.< However, always ask to find out an individual’s language preferences.
- Use neutral language.
- Use language that emphasizes the need for accessibility rather than the presence of a disability.
- Portray successful people with disabilities in a balanced way, not as heroic or superhuman.
Check out the full guide for more pointers and examples.
