First let me talk about ableism. Ableism is the term used when others use discrimination against a person who is disabled or perceived as disabled in relation to their abilities and therefore define them inferior. Ableism is the social construct that able persons are more superior and that non able persons such as people with disabilities are defined by their disability. Ableism exist, it is deep rooted in society and makes the world inaccessible to those with disabilities.

Ableist language is something that I am trying to be more aware of. I didn’t know, until I had Charlie what the word ableist meant and the impact of using ableist language. In short, ableist language is using words that are abusive or damaging to disabled people or about a disability. For e.g. the word “moron” is ableist against those with an intellectual disability. See the blog below for more references to ableist language.

Autistic Hoya — A blog by Lydia X. Z. Brown: Ableism/Language

When you use ableist language or ableism you are contributing to a world that actively makes disability inaccessible. You are contributing to a world that wants a social model that doesn’t include disability. You are harming those with disabilities by denying them access into a world where we should all be equal. Terms like “moron” “idiot” “retarded” were often used by medical professions and in medical journals as a way of institutionalising disabled people and categorising them as being lesser humans. No one is lesser of a human through disability. And frankly if you use words like this you should get yourself more education and educate yourself on the harm of ableist language, correct your error and apologise.

If I have ever used ableist language I wholeheartedly apologise, I am now better educated and well informed. The ableist jar is a good way to keep on top of your language if you need help.

The Ableist Jar

I hope this has been informative. I will work hard to ensure that I keep in check of the language I use. Afterall language is so powerful.

Here is another link aimed at autism and ableism.

Autism awareness: ableism, language and misconceptions | Together Trust

Happy Good Friday.

Georgina x