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For several months I've thought about commenting on the use of language on OPB in regards to people with disabilities.  I cringe when I hear reporters talking about "disabled people," or, in your mental health stories, "the mentally ill," or "bipolar people."

I think this is the perfect opportunity to talk about person-first language.  The Americans with Disabilities Act uses person-first language.  It is not the "Disabled Americans" Act.  The language we use can seem like a simple thing, but the effecsts are enormous.  No matter what kind of disability someone has, I hope we can look at people as PEOPLE first.  I choose to talk about myself and others as "a person with...." vs. "a disabled person."

posted 2 years, 10 months ago
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