Differences Between Person First and Identity First Language

Which do you prefer? #PeopleFirstLanguage or #IdentityFirstLanguage? When it comes to language approach is "better" for society. It, of course, depends on various factors, including cultural context, individual preferences, and the specific communities being discussed. Here's a nuanced perspective on each approach: People-Versed Language: Pros: Emphasizes the personhood and humanity of individuals. Helps reduce stigma and negative stereotypes by prioritizing the individual over their condition or identity. Can promote empathy and understanding by focusing on the person rather than their characteristics. Cons: This may inadvertently reinforce the idea that certain identities or conditions are inherently negative or should be avoided in conversation. Some individuals and communities may prefer identity-based language as a way to assert and affirm their identities. Identity-Based Language: Pros: Affirms and validates diverse identities, promoting visibility and recognition within society. Acknowledges the importance of identity as an integral part of an individual's lived experience. Empowers individuals to embrace and celebrate their identities rather than conceal or downplay them. Cons: Can perpetuate stereotypes or essentialize individuals based on their identities. May not align with the preferences of all individuals within a particular community, as some may prefer people-versed language. Ultimately, the "better" approach for society may involve a balance between these two perspectives, recognizing that different individuals and communities have varying preferences and needs. It's essential to prioritize respect, empathy, and inclusivity in language use, actively listening to and honoring the preferences of those being described. Additionally, Billion Strong is having an ongoing dialogue and reflection within our communities that can help navigate complex linguistic issues and promote understanding and solidarity among diverse groups. #WeAreBillionStrong #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #AXSChat #ADA #CRPD #disability #disabilityawareness #disabilityinclusion #disabilities #disabilityemployment #disabilitysupport #disabilityadvocate #disabilityconfident #accessibility #accessforall #accessible #A11Y #Inclusion #DEIA #DEI #SDGs #identitydesign #identity #strongertogether #ableism #DisabilityPride #DisabilityIdentity #language #languagematters

-Why I don't use "person first" language when describing the Autistic Identity groups I run- Recently I sent out an email talking about why I call my groups "identity" groups instead of "support" groups. A psychologist on my email list wrote back to tell me that I should be using "person first" language, and that I was wrong to phrase things the way I was doing. I was glad she wrote, because it gave me the opportunity to explain why I don't use person first language with autism. Here is what I wrote: "Thank you for writing. In the neuroaffirming autistic community, the vast majority of people deliberately choose not to use person first language. We don't see autism as a deficiency or disorder. Therefore we say "I'm autistic". It cannot be divided from who we are. We wouldn't say "I'm a person with Jewishness" or "I'm a person with gayness".  The people in my groups, including doctors, teachers, lawyers, professors, and psychologists all reject person first language because it does not reflect their embracing of autistic identity. It is a word that is being reclaimed and absolutely can define a person, especially when they themselves choose to use the word for self-definition. Further information on this topic can be found in "Unmasking Autism" and other writings by Dr. Devon Price or "The Adult Autism Assessment Handbook" by Davida Hartman et al." The psychologist wrote back to say that I didn't have any scientific backing for why I was rejecting person first language, and that my reasons were just anecdotal. I didn't respond. I know from speaking and working with hundreds of fellow neurodivergents, that we have a right to self-identify. Gay people don't use person-first language. A woman would not describe herself with person first language. I am sure there are plenty of autistic adults who DO want to use person first language and would have a problem with my syntax. I support that. They are free to not join my groups, to not follow my content, and to find the support they need elsewhere. They can determine FOR THEMSELVES how they want to identify. And I can honor the people I work with by using the phrasing that THEY THEMSELVES prefer. So if you or someone you know wants to learn more about person first language and autism, autistic identity, and how decreasing the shame around autism can boost self esteem, sign up for my next group, you will be in good company! (we are half full and filling up, so don't lose your spot) When: Monday nights, 6-7pm EST, beginning Jan 27, for 6 weeks Where: all online Who: ASD1 foks, (self recognized autistics or questioning are welcome!) Cost: 150.00 for the whole series How: Venmo me - katy-macrae , last 4 digits are 9725. Or Zelle: katy.macrae@gmail.com

Would you ever refer to Barack Obama as "our first president with Blackness"? Would you ever think of David Robinson or Manu Ginobili as outstanding basketball players "with a left-handedness disorder"? So stop referring to autistic people* like this! Most autistic people prefer "identity first language" as opposed to "person first language." This means "an autistic person" rather than "a person with autism" (or even worse, "a person with an autism spectrum disorder"). Being autistic is not a deficiency. It's not a component of a person. Most autistic people consider being autistic to be part of their identity, inseparable from who they are - just like someone's ethnicity, gender, heritage, or other innate characteristics. #neurodiversity #autisticapprecitation *Some do prefer person-first language - i.e., "person with autism". So always respect that when talking with people who do.