Did you know that March is Disability Awareness Month? It’s a time to shed light on the unique experiences of people with disabilities and promote inclusion. One of the most important things we can do during this month is to examine our own attitudes and behaviors toward those who live with disabilities. Are we unintentionally perpetuating harmful stereotypes or using ableist language? We will explore some of the ways we can show support and be allies.
We all know that people are more than just their abilities, so it’s important to not use labels that reduce others to a diagnosis. Instead, we should refer to individuals by their names and ask how they prefer to be addressed. No matter the terminology preferred by an individual with a disability, make sure to respect their decision and be conscious of your word choice.
Another issue that requires our attention is gaslighting. This is a serious form of manipulation that can make someone question their own reality. Unfortunately, people with disabilities are often targets of gaslighting, which can be especially damaging to those with intellectual or neurological disabilities. It is important that we listen instead of downplaying their experiences. It’s essential to listen to and respect people with disabilities. Individuals who communicate differently are often ignored or dismissed.
Now, we turn to ableist language. This includes using disability as an insult, which can be incredibly harmful. We need to unlearn these terms and replace them with words that aren’t tied to a disability. Promoting positivity is far better than bringing each other down.
There is also the problem of infantilization. People with disabilities are often treated like children, even when they’re adults. This is a common occurrence as many well-intentioned individuals may attempt to make accommodations for a person with disabilities, but it can be deemed excessive, which can be disrespectful and humiliating. Let’s recognize that adults with disabilities have valuable life experiences and should be treated with the same respect as anyone else.
So, what can we do to be better allies to people with disabilities? We can start by examining our own biases and behaviors, listening to and respecting their experiences, and using language that promotes positivity and inclusion. Let’s make Disability Awareness Month a time to celebrate diversity and advocate for change.
Lastly, if you want to learn more, you can visit Disability Rights New Jersey, a non-profit that helps people with disabilities and their families. They make sure that people with disabilities are safe and treated fairly. They also provide legal help, check on places where people with disabilities get care, and give information and training.
