![]() Don't hesitate to seek advice from organizations of people with disabilities on how to report on, discuss, and write about disability. When writing an article or reporting on people with disabilities, ensure that the words you use are factual, objective, and inclusive. Media coverage of people with disabilities If the disability is not relevant to the context, it is not necessary to report it. Individuals with invisible disabilities such as epilepsy, hemophilia, and mental health and learning or developmental disabilities also encounter barriers and negative attitudes.įocus on the issue rather than the disability. Remember that, although some disabilities are not visible, it does not mean they are less real. A disability may just mean that some things are done in a different manner, but that doesn’t mean the words used to describe the activity must be different. People who use wheelchairs go for "walks," people with visual impairments "see" what you mean, and so on. People with disabilities are comfortable with the terminology used to describe daily living activities. The centrefold in this guide contains more terms pertaining to people with disabilities. Avoid words such as "burden," "incompetent," or "defective," which suggest that people with disabilities are inferior and should be excluded from activities generally available to people without disabilities.While this may be the case for some individuals, a disability is a condition that does not necessarily cause pain or require medical attention. Words like "suffers from," "stricken with," "afflicted by," "patient," "disease," or "sick" suggest constant pain and a sense of hopelessness. Avoid references that cause discomfort, guilt, pity, or insult.Remember that the majority of people with disabilities have similar aspirations as the rest of the population, and that words and images should reflect their inclusion in society, except where social isolation is the focal point. Avoid using "brave," "courageous," "inspirational," or other similar words to describe a person with a disability. Choose words that are non-judgmental, non-emotional, and are accurate descriptions. Avoid categorizing people with disabilities as either super-achievers or tragic figures.It is therefore preferable not to use the term "the disabled" but rather "people with disabilities." The word "disabled" is an adjective, not a noun. A disability is a functional limitation or restriction of an individual’s ability to perform an activity.The following guidelines suggest appropriate terminology to use when speaking or referring to people with disabilities. It is important to remember that words have a precise meaning and are not interchangeable. In addition, the removable centrefold lists appropriate terminology and images. The second section, "Media coverage of people with disabilities," (see page 4) deals with how the media should approach the issue. The first section, "General guidelines," has information on terminology and images that relate to people with disabilities. This booklet has two sections and a removable insert. It recommends current and appropriate terminology to help you reach this goal. This booklet seeks to promote a fair and accurate portrayal of people with disabilities. We can ensure they reach these goals by using proper words and images, and by changing the ways in which issues are reported. Language use is changing as people with disabilities achieve equality, independence, and full participation in all aspects of Canadian society. Since words are a mirror of society's attitudes and perceptions, we should all put great thought into how we present information about people with disabilities, to help overcome negative attitudes and shape positive ones. ![]() They are also asking that images chosen to portray them be respectful and not reinforce outdated stereotypes.Īttitudes can be the most difficult barrier people with disabilities face in achieving full integration, acceptance, and participation in society. People with disabilities are asking Canadians, and the media in particular, to use respectful terms when writing and speaking about them or about issues that affect their lives. Media coverage of people with disabilities. ![]()
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