Striving to remove barriers that prevent us from building Vibrant, Diverse, Inclusive, Accessible Communities!
Harmful rhetoric directed at People with Disabilities is not just offensive—it is dangerous and dehumanizing. In her powerful article, Noelle Pacl exposes how recent increases in derogatory comments, including messages aimed at her own profoundly Disabled child, are part of a broader societal trend. This trend, fueled by public figures and political rhetoric, paints People with Disabilities as "burdens" and "too expensive," ignoring the fact that the real problems lie in systemic discrimination, inaccessible environments, and social neglect. These barriers need to be removed—not justified. We cannot build Vibrant, Diverse, Inclusive, Accessible Communities while such language continues to circulate and shape public opinion.
Pacl reminds us that this rhetoric directly undermines community-building by stripping Disabled people of their value and dignity. When adults model disrespectful language, they perpetuate harmful stereotypes that influence not only policy but also the minds of the next generation. These words matter. They determine how society chooses to treat People with Disabilities—whether we create environments that include and empower, or systems that exclude and harm. Removing barriers begins with language and continues through intentional action to ensure full participation in our communities.
The article explores the historical roots of this discriminatory language, tracing its evolution from medical terms like “feebleminded” to slurs like “retard,” all used to justify marginalization and institutionalization. From the institutional abuse of Disabled children in the 19th and 20th centuries to the calculated violence of Nazi Germany’s T4 Program, history shows how dangerous rhetoric becomes when normalized. Today’s harmful language echoes this legacy. It reminds us that language is never neutral—it either builds inclusion or reinforces exclusion. Striving to remove barriers that prevent us from building Vibrant, Diverse, Inclusive, Accessible Communities requires us to recognize and reject ableist language in all its forms.
This is not about “political correctness.” It is about safeguarding the rights, dignity, and lives of People with Disabilities. Community members, especially parents and educators, have a responsibility to model inclusive language and reject harmful narratives. Let us learn from history and commit to fostering communities where People with Disabilities are fully seen, respected, and valued. Read the full article to understand why removing barriers must include holding ourselves accountable for the words we choose. Your voice can be a powerful force for change—starting with the language you use and share.
Read the Full Article: How negative rhetoric toward disabled people has a harmful record
by: Noelle Pacl
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