Universal Design

People First Language in Print

When discussing Universal Design in print, writers must rethink the way they talk about people who need accommodations to read or understand written material. Audience awareness is key here. People need to be aware of the way they speak and how they could disrespect someone without knowing it. In print, since space is often limited, writers must work to use the most respectful language possible while working within project specifications.

Respectful Language

The Arc, an organization that advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, discusses a great way to respectfully talk about people with disabilities. People First Language is a major step forward in communication with and about people with disabilities. This way of talking focuses on people, not disabilities. After all, people with disabilities are first and foremost people—people who have abilities and interests and who can and want to make contributions to society. We should do away with negative ways of thinking about people with disabilities, such as that they are a burden to society or people to be pitied, feared, or ignored. Using People First Language is one way people can get rid of these stereotypes.

New Ways of Speaking

This table shows some ways to reword phrases and sayings to emphasize people, not disabilities. Using this sort of wording in print material will show people that the designer is aware of these issues and is working towards a better future, one word at a time. Here are some examples Kathie Snow of Disability is Natural gives for how to use People First Language.