Person-First Language – Placing the Person Before the Disability
Ohio House Bill 281 took effect on April 6, 2023. This bill turned law, entitled the Mental Health and Disability Terminology Act, removed derogatory words from the Ohio Revised Code. Terminology like “lunatic,” “derangement,” and “mental retardation,” have been eliminated from state law.
Unfortunately, you can still hear these words used in our communities. In addition, we still experience people using identify-first language instead of person-first language. What is the difference? Let’s explore.
Identify-First vs. Person-First
Identify-first language places the disability before the person. For example, my cerebral palsy friend. Person-first language, on the other hand, puts the person before the disability, i.e., my friend who has cerebral palsy. It is important to note that person-first language does not mention disabilities if it has nothing to do with the conversation.
Why Does It Matter?
It’s simple! As we are instructed in Matthew 7:12, “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them.” It is The Golden Rule – treat others as you wish to be treated by them. When using person-first language, you are placing the person first. This is a sign of respect, showing they are more than just their disability.
What Can You Do?
If you are not already doing it, start using person-first language today! Encourage others to do the same. If you hear someone using inappropriate language, gently instruct them on proper terminology. If you are unsure how to describe someone’s disability, ask them! Together, we can emphasize strengths and capabilities instead of weaknesses and limitations.
Examples of First-Person Language
Person-first language is easy to use once you understand what it is. For example, instead of saying, “the disabled or handicapped”, say, “a person with a disability.” Instead of referring to someone as, “wheelchair bound,” say, “they are a person that uses a wheelchair.” To find out more, check out additional resources like disabilityisnatural.com.
Resources:
https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/134/hb281
https://ddc.ohio.gov/resources-and-publications/clear-language/person-first-language
