Language and how we talk matters, it can be a powerful tool for cultural change. Language shapes how we think about disability and can influence how people with disability are perceived, treated and included in society.
Our language choices can either reinforce outdated stereotypes or promote dignity, respect and inclusion.
At Melba, the way we talk is guided by contemporary human rights principles that recognise disability as part of human diversity rather than a deficit, health issue or tragedy.
There are several key concepts that shape the experiences of people with disability and help to explain why language matters so much in Australia’s disability sector.
These concepts matter because language reflects power – those who decide what terms are “appropriate” often hold more influence in society.
Person first v identity first language
People with disability have differing views on person first language (people with disability) and identity first language (disabled people). Many people prefer one term or the other, so it’s best to follow the lead of the person or group you’re talking with. Self-determination includes the right to define how your own identity is described and discussed.
At Melba, our default is person first language, we refer to people as simply that, people. We don’t refer to a person’s disability if it’s not relevant to what’s being said. This removes unnecessary focus on disability. The dehumanisation of people with disability has a long history and we choose to preface our language with humanity. People will have different preferences for how they and their disability is spoken about, always listen to how people describe themselves and follow their lead. If in doubt, ask!
Ableism
Ableism is language that assumes the superiority of non-disabled experiences. Ableist language includes casual metaphors (“that’s so lame”), euphemisms (“differently abled”), or terms that frame disability as inherently negative. Understanding ableism ensures people recognise how seemingly neutral language choices can reinforce harmful power dynamics.
Infantilisation
Adults with disability are often infantilised through language that is overly simplistic, patronising, or childlike. This includes using simplistic, childlike language, speaking about adults as if they were children, or bypassing a person to communicate with support workers. Understanding this concept helps people recognise subtle ways they might unintentionally undermine the dignity of adults they support. People with disability are often viewed as a sum of their hobbies and if their hobbies could be seen as childlike, there is a great risk of portraying them as childlike.
Othering
“Othering” is when language creates a separation between people with and without disability, reinforcing an us v them mentality. This includes phrases like “the disabled”, referring to people without disability as “normal” or lowering standards because they have a disability. This kind of language excludes people instead of valuing our shared humanity.
Inspiration porn
Coined by disability activist Stella Young, “inspiration porn” refers to the objectification of people with disability as inspirational solely based on their disability. This includes stories that frame ordinary achievements as extraordinary because they’re accomplished by someone with disability. This may appear positive when it actually reinforces low expectations and stereotypes.
Language is constantly evolving and what is considered appropriate language changes over time, as understanding evolves and people and communities advocate for their preferences. Language once considered acceptable can become outdated even offensive. Everyone should be aware of this evolution and commit to ongoing learning.
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