Navigating Disability Interactions: 10 Insights for a More Inclusive Approach
Venture into unfamiliar territory, and you'll likely find yourself in a new country, a wedding celebration steeped in culture, or a friend's house of worship. Before diving in, what's the first action on your list?
That's right! You read up on the culture to understand the community you're stepping into. Every society is unique, each with its own norms, expectations, and values. To avoid unintentionally offending someone, it pays to be informed.
Now, imagine applying this same philosophy to disabilities. The disability community is diverse, dispersed, yet it has its own culture too. And just like you wouldn't want to offend someone in a new country, it's essential to learn about and respect this unique community.
So, let's delve into a quick etiquette guide for interacting with individuals living with disabilities. Here are 10 rules that can help create a positive impact on your relationships:
Disability Etiquette 101
1. Avoid Invasive Questions
Just as you'd avoid asking a stranger personal questions, don't pry into someone's disability. Why do they have a scar? How did they manage to drive or live alone? In most cases, these questions aren't welcomed, as they can be intrusive and offensive.
2. Never Question Someone's Disability
Disabilities aren't always visible. With one in four Americans living with a disability of some kind according to the CDC, it's crucial to remember that disabilities may not show on the surface. It's not a contest, and everyone deserves equal respect, regardless of their visible symptoms.
3. Assume Capability
Operate under the assumption that the person you're interacting with can do everything you can. If they need assistance, they'll ask. Remember Madison Tevlin's empowering ad campaign, "Assume that I can, so maybe I will."
4. Don't Assume Help is Needed
Respect the individual's autonomy. If they need your help, they'll ask. Remember, they're the experts on their own lives.
5. Don't Touch People's Assistive Devices
A person's assistive devices, like wheelchairs or hearing aids, are extensions of their body. Treat them with care and respect.
6. Communicate Respectfully
Adjust your communication style based on the individual's needs. Be patient, avoid speaking for or over others, address them directly, and ask for clarification if needed.
7. Show Consideration for Service Animals
Service animals are working when they're on the job. Distracting them can endanger their handlers, so leave them be while they work.
8. Mind Your Language
Be aware of the words and phrases you use. Some terms may have ableist connotations, so choose your words carefully.
9. Respect Individual Preferences
Every person is unique, so learn and accommodate their preferences. Remember, it's about finding common ground and treating each person with respect.
10. Apologize When You Make a Mistake
It's normal to stumble and make mistakes. What matters is that you acknowledge and learn from them.
By following these simple guidelines, you're on your way to becoming an ally to the disability community. After all, politeness alone isn't enough to make you an ally, but it's a great place to start!
Sources:- World Health Organization (WHO)- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)- Marvin Natowicz, MD, PhD, a physician specializing in genetics and pathology- Carolyn Deming, who works in communications and chairs an employee resource group for people with disabilities
In the realm of unfamiliar territory, learning about the disability community is equally significant as understanding a foreign culture.
To foster positive relationships, be mindful of invasive questions and respect a person's privacy, especially regarding their disability.
Recall the words of Madison Tevlin's ad campaign, "Assume that I can, so maybe I will," and always assume a person's capabilities.
Respect the autonomy of individuals and only offer help when asked. In addition, maintain a considerate distance from service animals while they work.
Lastly, be aware of the language you use and respect individual preferences to create an inclusive environment for everyone.
