Words Speak Volumes:
Maximizing Language
to Foster
Inclusive Interaction
Melissa Ann Santora
5025 E Washington St #214
Phoenix AZ 85034
602-262-2900
melissa@azsilc.org
Goal
Participants will gain insights and strategies for reframing the
language used by their SILC to implement more inclusive,
welcoming, and contemporary values and communications.
Objectives
1. Develop a deeper understanding of the importance language
plays in SILC interactions, and how it both includes and
alienates.
2. Discover strategies to incorporate a language of acceptance
and opportunity into the fabric of Independent Living in your
state.
3. Define a goal to work toward achieving over the next year, in
regard to enhancement of the language used in reference to
disability issues in your state.
Language
lan·guage [ˈlaNGɡwij]
NOUN
1. the method of human communication,
either spoken or written, consisting of the use
of words in a structured and conventional way.
2. the system of communication used by a
particular community or country.
3. the manner or style of a piece of writing or
speech.
The Language of What We Do
The DSU, SILC and the CILs maintain a close working
relationship to maximize cooperation and coordination.
Gathering as the IL Network, they meet on a regular basis
and jointly plan and coordinate conferences, trainings,
workshops and other related activities for their staff and
the community. Both the DSU and CILs are actively
participating on the SILC. The IL Network meets quarterly
to review the SPIL, present an overview of their
respective organizations, accomplishments, issues,
challenges, and consider how to expand the IL network.
DSU and CILs will provide SILC with their RSA-704 and
related reports. CILs will provide the SILC with results of
their respective consumer satisfaction surveys.
Words That Include, Invite, Excite
Words That Exclude, Impede, Confuse
Reframing Our Language: More Inclusive, More Inviting, More Exciting
What are
the
synonyms
for this
word?
How is
this
word
helpful?
Activity
How is this
word
harmful?
How can you
restate/reframe
this word?
Where can you
change your
usage of this
word?
BLURRED & ABSURD WORDS
“(ab)normal”
“midget”
“handicapped”
“quad”
“disabled”
“ableist”
“case/client/patient/consumer”
“delayed”
“retarded”
“mute”
“comorbid”
“chair user”
“LD”
“differently-abled”
“dwarf”
“challenged”
“non-verbal”
“plagued by”
“able-bodied”
“infirmed”
“confined”
If our language is a barrier that keeps people from engaging in our mission…
If we’re comfortable with our lingo although others don’t understand it…
If we reduce people to acronyms…
If we use words that might make an unintended impression…
If we label ourselves and expect others not to…
If we seek equality and continue separating ourselves…
If we rebuke the medical model and continue to regard its language…
If we keep using antiquated words and phrases…
If we model best practices from decades ago…
If we honor our history and neglect to upgrade its legacy…
If we leave this room without taking the opportunity to make even one change…
WHOSE PROBLEM IS IT ANYWAY?
2016 Language Enhancement Goal
Goal Statement:
Objective:
Objective:
Objective:
Goal: a broad statement about a long-term desired outcome.
Objective: a measurable result that will be achieved in a specific timeframe to help accomplish a desired goal.
Rap
Anyone care to share their Goal/Objectives?
Review
Further Questions?
Final Thoughts?
Remember
What will you share with others?
Who will you share this with?
When will you share it?