Person First or Identity First: The Importance of Language
When talking about a disability or health condition, the language that we use matters.
Some people will prefer to use 'Person-First' Language,, which puts an emphasis on the person - rather than their disabiliy or health condition. It is literally like saying 'a person with a disability' - for example 'a person with autism.'
Some people will prefer this way of language as it implies that the person is so much more than their disability or health condition - and that this is not the main part of their identity.
Other people will opt for 'Identity-First' Language, which is just as valid. This is literally like saying 'a disabled person' - for example an 'autistic person.'
Some people will argue that there is nothing to be ashamed of by being disabled or having a health-condition, and that advicating for 'Person-First' Language' is possibly even ableist.
It's important to remember that opinions on this topic can differ, but we must support each other in the langauge choice that they prefer.
If in doubt, ask! The 7 Cups Community is an inclusive space.
@JessHobson I find this advice confusing.
The first line says that the language we use matters, but the next four paragraphs seem to say it doesn't matter, it's just a preference. Finally, the last line says it's not a preference and if in doubt to ask someone else, which seems to imply that it matters after all!
It would be interesting to see research evidence for any of this. I had a quick look, but I could only find conflicting opinions. It doesn't look like anyone has been able to show, scientifically, that person-first or identity-first makes any real difference to anything.
Charlie
@RarelyCharlie I did a similar thread so thought about this already as it relates to disability. I think it's not directly stated in the OP, but language does matter and in this case there are 2 aspects as to why. 1. systemic issues 2. being respectful on a personal level
If there was equality, then 1 wouldn't be an issue. With 2. I think that applies to many things, if someone's legal name is Jennifer but says they prefer to go by Jen and someone regularly interacts with them it's a crappy thing to constantly refer to them as Jennifer. Issues with 1 can lead to more importance/hurt if not followed with 2.
Does it matter if going with person first vs. identity first in terms of one creating or fixing issues? No, but when dealing with inequality the terms used can help to highlight points.