Writing Style and Language

“We recognize that disability and personhood are not mutually exclusive. They are not oxymoronic.”

Whether it’s true for us or not, we all know it’s true; some people are still afraid to interact with disabled people.

When talking about disability, model the language you would like people to use, and don’t hesitate to point out offensive language in others.

Some of our most common, ingrained expressions have damaging effects on millions of people – and many of us don't know we're hurting others when we speak.

Making Content Usable for People with Cognitive and Learning Disabilities

This document is for people who make web content (web pages) and web applications. It gives advice on how to make content usable for people with cognitive and learning disabilities. This includes, but is not limited to: cognitive disabilities, learning disabilities (LD), neurodiversity, intellectual disabilities, and specific learning disabilities.

Writing for Web Accessibility – Tips for Getting Started | Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) | W3C

Summary

While positivity can certainly be an asset, it isn’t a superpower. It cannot by itself create positive outcomes. Disabled people know this better than most.

Many experts and advocates vehemently oppose the term "special needs," and say that avoiding the term "disabled" only leads to further stigmatization.

Many experts and advocates vehemently oppose the term "special needs," and say that avoiding the term "disabled" only leads to further stigmatization.

Ask an Ally: You’ve been trained to see the deficiencies in people rather than the policies that encourage discrimination.

The Web's Daily Resource for Charcot-Marie-Tooth News

Discussion of Ableism - How to address people with disabilities

In this episode, Michelle and guest Maryann Reissig discuss ableism, and how you should (and shouldn't) address those with disabilities.

Hosted by Laura Bain, In Focus covers some of the biggest controversies surrounding disability language with an expert panel that includes Michelle McQuigge of The Canadian Press and journalist, writer and activist Andrew Pulrang.

We have collaborated with disabled rapper Kray-Z Legz, to launch a new rap and video titled ‘The Language of Disability’.

Autism Awareness Month is a good time to review your communication plans

as more people learn about disability issues, it’s important to be alert for ways that disability allies can lose their way. The following are three of the most common ways that even the best, most committed disability allies can go wrong.

Some of our most common, ingrained expressions have damaging effects on millions of people – and many of us don't know we're hurting others when we speak.

Some of our most common, ingrained expressions have damaging effects on millions of people – and many of us don't know we're hurting others when we speak.

Why are you harping so much on words, anyway?