People First Language

MDSC promotes the rights of individuals with disabilities as part of the “Language First People” movement because disabilities are not their first diagnoses, but they are first and foremost PEOPLE. MDSC is not only committed to using the language of First People in all interactions, statements, and materials, but also works to encourage and educate the larger community to do the same.

For People with Down Syndrome

The correct name for this diagnosis is Down syndrome. There is no apostrophe in “s” in Down. The “s” in syndrome is not capitalized.

Promote the use of People First language among individuals.

A person with Down syndrome is a person above all else.

The person with Down syndrome has many other attributes and qualities that can be described. The emphasis should not be on the disability of the person.

“The individual with Down syndrome,” not “the person with Down syndrome.”.

An individual with Down syndrome is not referred to as “a Downs person.”

A person “has” Down syndrome, instead of “suffers from,” “is a victim of,” “is diseased with,” or “afflicted by.”

Every individual possesses their own distinct strengths, abilities, and gifts.

Try to avoid using the clichés that are frequently used when describing an individual with Down syndrome. It is disrespectful to assume that all people with Down syndrome possess the same traits or capabilities. Additionally, this perpetuates the stereotype that “all people with Down syndrome are identical.”

Thanks to our national collaborators at the National Down Syndrome Congress.

For People with Disabilities

Prioritize individuals over their disabilities.

An individual with a disability, not a person who is disabled.

A “child with autism,” not a “child with autism” Use emotionally neutral expressions.

A person “having” cerebral palsy, not “suffering from” cerebral palsy.

A person who experienced a stroke, not a stroke “victim”.

A person “has” Down syndrome, not “experiences” Down syndrome.

Focus on strengths, rather than restrictions.

A person “utilizes a wheelchair”, not “bound to a wheelchair”.

A child “obtains specialized educational services”, not “in special education”.

Choose the preferred language A “cognitive disability” or “intellectual disability” is preferred over the term “mentally retarded”.

“Typically developing” or “typical” is favored over “normal”.

“Accessible” parking area or hotel accommodation is favored over “handicapped”.

MDSC ‘r-word’ Position Statement

The origins of the “R-word” can be traced back to a period of several decades, during which derogatory language and deprecatory forms were commonly used to describe individuals with intellectual disabilities. Originally, the term “Mental retardation” was used as a clinical description for such individuals.

First and foremost, it is important to recognize that the language we use has the power to shape our perceptions and attitudes towards others. In this regard, there have been significant advancements in the political, medical, and clinical worlds to update and reflect societal changes and sensitivities. One such example is the removal of the derogatory term “retardation” and its variants, such as “mentally retarded,” which have been replaced with the more appropriate and inclusive term “intellectual disability.” This change was made evident in the signing of the Rosa Law by President Obama in August 2010, where the r-word was removed from general laws. Additionally, at the local level in Massachusetts, this recognition and removal of the r-word has been acknowledged. These efforts demonstrate the progress made in updating technical language to align with the values of inclusivity and respect for all individuals.

In the 21st century, the use of the r-word in everyday language is largely considered outdated, as it creates an atmosphere that negatively affects the perception of people with intellectual disabilities and reinforces painful stereotypes. We believe it is disrespectful, insulting, and degrading, even when not directed at a specific individual.

In order to ensure respect, dignity, and inclusion for everyone, the Language First People urge us to follow the proscribed guidelines set by them. For example, instead of saying “a child with Down syndrome,” it is preferred to say “a child with the syndrome Down,” which ensures that people are not defined by their disability. By using the Language First People approach, individuals with disabilities can maintain a proper focus on their unique abilities and accomplishments.