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EW Tipping Foundation - Describing people with disabilities in the media

“I have a life totally unrelated to my disability" - Graeme Innes, President of the Royal Blind Society, extracted from “You can make a difference” published by the ABC.

We have some quick tips on portraying people with disabilities in the media:

  • Put people first, not their disability. If you can, use "a person with a disability" rather than "a disabled person". (We know it means more words in your story and it sounds politically correct, but if YOU had a disability, which would you prefer?)
  • Be accurate in describing disabilities. For example, being culturally Deaf OR having a hearing impairment are two entirely different things.
  • Focus on the individual, not only on his or her disability, which is only one facet of the person. Try to keep the person's disability in proper perspective.
  • Emphasise abilities, not limitations. Consider “uses a wheelchair” or “walks with crutches” rather than “confined to a wheelchair” or “crippled”. Avoid use of inappropriate emotional descriptors such as unfortunate or pitiful.
  • Portray successful people with disabilities as successful people, not super humans. Even though the public may admire super achievers, portraying people with disabilities as superstars raises false expectations that all people with disabilities should achieve at this level.
  • Be accurate with your messages. Avoid negative stereotyping, with words such as handicapped; dumb; retarded; crippled; physically challenged; afflicted; confined; able-bodied; tragic; sufferer; victim. Ask yourself: does this portrayal patronise or victimise?
  • Be willing to ask. If in doubt, ask a straightforward question. Most people with disabilities dislike undue sympathy or someone "treading on eggshells".

If you would like more advice, please contact the Communications Co-ordinator of the EW Tipping Foundation on 9564 5908.

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