People First or First People?

When was the last time you referred to someone as a handicapped, crippled person? We all have to admit to it, the words the Autistic boy, disabled friend, or handicapped neighbors have probably come out of our mouths just a few times in the past few weeks. Which sounds better to you; Billy with Autism or Autistic Billy? The politically correct answer is Billy with Autism. It not only puts the person in front of the disability; but is also legally correct. Which sure is a good thing since Billy is so much more than just his Autism. He is a caring older brother who is awesome at video games, oh and he just happens to have a disability called Autism. Back to the legalities involved here. In 1990, the law changed the wording from handicapped people (Education of All Handicapped Children Act of 1975 P.L. 94-142) to individuals with disabilities (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1990 P.L. 101-476). Not only does the law state it, but putting the person before his or her disability just plain sounds better. This leads us to the word handicapped; which to me is a word that belongs on the golf course, not our everyday lives. In most instances, the word disability now replaces the word handicapped; especially when referring to a nonphysical disability. So, before referring to Billy as the Autistic boy, remember he is so much more. He is Billy the boy who happens to have Autism.

This was to be in the Sioux City Journal this past weekend...I couldn't find it...not sure what happened.