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Disability Etiquette - Did you know?

Now in its sixth annual edition, Site Unseen 2009 (Monday, November 9 from 6-9pm) will feature works by local artists that bring visibility to issues presented by disabilities of all kinds. In preparation for the event, we have sought out information from “Open Doors Organization” a Chicago-based group founded in 2000 for the purpose of creating a society in which all persons with disabilities have the same consumer opportunities as those without.

Open Doors was kind enough to share their “Etiquette Guidelines” document which details appropriate interaction and communication with or about people with disabilities.

See below for selected tips or click here to download complete [PDF].

• Speak directly to the person with a disability.

• Do not refer to a person’s disability unless it is relevant.

• Most people with disabilities prefer “person-first” terminology such as “person who is blind” or “people with disabilities” since this acknowledges them as people first rather than their disability.

• Avoid referring to groups of people by their condition or disability such as “the blind,” “the deaf,” etc.

• Avoid sensational descriptive words when referring to a person’s disability such as “suffers from,” “is a victim of,” “is afflicted with.”

• Never say anything that you would not want said to or about yourself.

• Wait for instructions on the help needed and follow the instructions.

• Let people know, especially those who are blind or have low vision, where they are and where you are taking them.

• Do not pet service animals as they are working. Provide escort to an animal relief area if requested.