Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi All,
I'm trying to set up an internal 'best practice' document around inclusive language at work. Does anyone have any tips/preferences on language? I know it's a hot topic currently in the community eg. Autistic person / person with autism etc.
Any insights would be appreciated!
I think saying “Autistic person/person with Autism” is fine when it comes to inclusive language.
Just to clarify are you saying that both forms of language are ok?
Yeah. I think both are fine.
π Bees π (they/them) Autism resources in bio #stoptheshock #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs said:Like you might use identity first generally because it's what a majority of people like, but then be prepared to change it when talking about one person specifically who prefers the person first language.
Yes I understand, it’s important to respect individual preferences.
I think rather than be prescriptive about person or identity first language it could resolve the issue by instructing NT's to just actually ask the autistic person what they prefer. Like you might use identity first generally because it's what a majority of people like, but then be prepared to change it when talking about one person specifically who prefers the person first language.
I know this is preferred, i personally prefer 'person with autism' as I like person first language. But i understand the preference of others.
Good to know.
True. I was wondering if “person with Autism” was a bit of an odd way to put it but I do prefer “Autistic person” over “person with Autism” but I don’t think either is bad. Just the one is odd to me.
Thanks for clarifying. Autistic person is preferred by the majority of our autistic community due to the fact that it describes our neurotype and we can not be separated from our own brains.