#SayTheWord

A panel discussion on the power of disability language.

Date/Time: Monday 28th June; 11am - 12pm (AEST)

“Spoken language plays a vital role in how we perceive issues. We convey emotions, thought, perceptions, and prejudice through verbal communication. Therefore, it’s important that we choose our words with intent. Which is why it is imperative that we think about how we talk about disability.

~  Lawrence Carter-Long, #SayTheWord

A growing movement called #SayTheWord was started by disability community activist Lawrence Carter-Long to draw attention to terminology. This movement encourages everyone to use the word “disability.” It also implores people to stop using made-up words or euphemisms about disability, such as ‘special needs’ and ‘differently-abled', which can be harmful. 

Inspired by the #SayTheWord movement, our esteemed panel of disability, autism, and neurodiversity experts and advocates will discuss:

the history of disability language and the impact of using euphemisms, such as special needs, on people with disability, including children.
the social model of disability and how barriers are not just physical; some of the most significant barriers are prejudice, discrimination and language

the difference between person-first and identity-first language, and how to get it right.
how parents can speak about disability with family and friends.
how parents can encourage and embrace their child’s identity as a person with disability and be an ally to the disability community.
How parents address ‘invisible disability’ in different settings.

 The insightful discussion will challenge assumptions around disability and language. It will leave you with a greater understanding of the importance of the words you use when referring to your child and people with disability, and how as a parent, you can be an ally to the disability community that your child is a member of.

 This panel is one NOT to be missed.

FAQ’s

Who is this panel for?
The panel is aimed towards parents and caregivers raising a child with disability. But we invite everyone to join this important conversation.

Will the panel be accessible?
Please advise your accessibility requirements during registration.

Captions will be available via the Otter within the Zoom webinar.

Will this panel be recorded?
The panel will be recorded and emailed to everyone who registers. Please make sure you register for this event so we can email you the recording.

Will I get to ask questions of the panel members?
There will be an opportunity ask questions of the panel members. You can either pre-submit your questions here or ask them during the webinar. We will try our best to get to all of the questions but cannot guarantee it.

Will the panel members and other attendees be able to see or hear me?
No. The panel will be hosted as a Zoom webinar. This means you can see the panel members, but you will not be on video or audio.

Will the session be interactive?
You will be able to interact via chat function. The chat will be moderated by Reframing Disability.

Disclaimer: Reframing Disability provides an opportunity for families raising children with disability to learn from each other and share their experiences and resources. Reframing Disability does not provide personalised advice or services.