Power of Words

I put a lot of thought into naming my blog. The first part was easy (although I do need to thank Ellie for changing "right" to "write") but I knew I needed a subtitle. I played with a few ideas and wanted to incorporate what the blog is about. Anything with CMT was out because people would think that it had to with Country Music Television. "Disability Diaries" was in the running for a while. I finally decided that I wanted something relatively shocking.

As my close friends know, I occasionally refer myself to "the cripple." I have noticed how people often react with discomfort and surprise. One co-worker continually tells me that I shouldn't talk like that. I think that she is concerned that I am putting myself down. Honestly, I think that I have dealt with having a disability and the language that surrounds it for so long that many of the words have lost their meaning and their power.

My mother was the first person who taught me about "people first" language. For those who don't know, "people first" language involves referring to people with disabilities instead of disabled people. Basically, it is a way of remembering that someone who has a disability is a person first, that the person defines the disability, not the disability defining the person. For example, a person who cannot see is a person with a visual impairment, not a blind man. I believe strongly in "people first" language and I try my best to always use it but there are times that I fail.

I have heard many variations on disability language. My least favorites over the years are "handi-capable" and "Jerry's Kids." I really can't say I have a favorite but my mom says her favorite is "gimpy." When referring to myself around people I don't know well, I will call myself a person with a disability. I guess I would say that I am sensitive when I hear other people using words referring to another person with a disability, but when people are referring to me, I am OK with most words (except for the 2 listed above).

My basic philosophy about disability language is that words only have the power that you give them. In the Harry Potter series, the wizarding world calls Lord Voldemort "He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named." Harry sees that by using Voldemort's name, that he retains power that others give him by refusing to name him. It is the same with words like "cripple."

I know this is a somewhat controversial topic. Please participate in the poll found on the left hand side of the page. (So far 77% of My Write Foot readers find the word "cripple" offensive). Also, please feel free to comment.

Thanks for reading and God bless.

Devin