Gentle Corrections

While the disability movement has a long and rich history, many families who find themselves raising a child with a disability often have no clue about it. Families learn their child has a diagnosis from a doctor or evaluator, or they notice that their child is missing developmental milestones over time. Others may refer a family to a program, or suggest they contact their local school district for supports and services.

What is the History of the Disability Movement?

Over time, families learn about the laws and policies that affect what supports and services might be available to their child and family. They may begin to research their child's specific disability or join support groups.This quest for support and services does not always mean that families are connected to groups that can educate them about the history of the disability movement. They may not learn about Justin Dart or Ed Roberts, they might never encounter Norman Kunc. They may not learn that before Geraldo Rivera was famous for getting hit with a chair by a skinhead, he had exposed New York State's approach to people with disabilities by filming the horrible conditions at Willowbrook. Thus families may not realize that people with disabilities, their families and the professionals who support them, have worked together to change how disabilities are viewed in our culture. Families might not know about the importance of using People First Language or using a strength-based approach to supporting people with disabilities.

How do we inform others about the Disability Movement?

It is important that family leaders and professionals share information about the history of the disability movement. Using anniversary dates or linking current activities to past activities can be helpful to insuring that families learn about the history of the disability movement. There are many wonderful YouTube videos which show the movement's activities to end the prevalence of institutions.

What Do I Do if I See Someone Using Non-People-First Language?

The first caveat is that it is never a good idea to call someone out for saying they have an Autistic son, or that their Uncle Bob is mentally ill. You'll only manage to embarrass them, and they will end up being defensive. Instead, modelling is the best first route. Mention that you have a wonderful daughter who loves to paint, is very physically active and has Down syndrome. When you see articles written by journalists, sending them a quick note thanking them for their article and ask that they use people first language or refrain from stating that a person is wheelchair bound, but rather that that person uses a wheelchair for mobility. And always share links to good references on the topic like Kathy Snow's Disability is Natural website.