Ableist language and behavior

Using language that places a negative emphasis on disability or a positive emphasis on being able-bodied. Many commonly used idioms are ableist in nature. Examples include: being “blind” to something, referring to an unexpected decision as “insane,” or noting that a point “fell on deaf ears.” In general, use the terminology preferred by the individual or group being addressed.

Additional reading: Best practices for avoiding ableist terminology

Citation: Center for Scientific Collaboration and Community Engagement. (2021) CSCCE Glossary: Inclusive Language in Community Building. Woodley, Pratt, Bakker, Bertipaglia, Dow, El Zein, Kuwana, Lower, Roca, and Santistevan doi: 10.5281/zenodo.5718783

Categories: Inclusive language
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