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MCC Daily Tribune

Disability Awareness and Sensitivity

What does it mean to use person-first language?

The purpose of person-first language is to recognize the impact of language and actions, to ensure language does not diminish the uniqueness and value of each individual. Utilizing person-first language emphasizes the individual rather than the disability. This language involves putting the person first, not the disability (e.g. a person with a disability, not a disabled person). People-first language tells us what conditions people have, not what they are.

Consider the following:

  • Emphasize abilities, not limitations.
  • Refer to a disability when relevant.
  • Ask the individual how they would like to be described.

Attached Files:
Examples of Person First Language.pdf

Stephanie Lee
Counseling Center & Disability Services
10/07/2019