Recently there has been discussion about the terminology for persons with disabilities. Although my views aren’t always mainstream I was happy to see that there were many people who agreed with my thoughts on that:
I DON’T GIVE AF.
Unless you’re using words that are meant to be hurtful, I really don’t care what terminology you choose when referring to someone “like me”. Terminology is always changing and evolving and I don’t expect the general public to stay on top of whatever is considered PC at any given time.
I’ve been called disabled, physically challenged, crippled, gimp... and even worse: ma’am! Excuse me? Am I old now too?
Most of us have lived through a time when one of these phrases was commonly used and acceptable. I have an older relative or two that still calls me “crippled”. It’s not because they’re trying to be offensive, they just don’t know and I’m very fine with that.
I was talking to someone about disabled people and was informed that it’s now “person with a disability”. Well, okay then. I guess that makes sense. 🤷🏻♀️ It was explained to me that you should be defined as a person first with your disability being secondary and not the other way around.
100% I get it. Also, I can’t remember what I did yesterday so that’s a lot of information and either way you slice it, I don’t find it offensive.
On the flipside, if you’re like, “hey you piece of shit person with a disability!” Or “you ugly ass physically challenged bitch!” That would be considered offensive because that’s just mean either way. If you didn’t already know that, I think you’re beyond anyones help.
I’ve been called much worse than any incorrect-for-the-present-time term (class of ‘94, where you at?😜). I have thick skin, I’m not bothered by words for the most part. Sticks and stones, bitches!!
I have a friend with a disability (See what I did there) who hosts parties for “gimps”! There are people who won’t join because of the name. I’m not a fan only because being raised in the era of Pulp Fiction, all I think about is a dude in all leather and a ball gag (bring out the gimp!) BUT I also have a sense of humor so I enjoy the company of anyone willing to be a part of that and those who understands why she does it.
There are many people who do not though and they take their words very seriously so please don’t use this as your reference guide!! I don’t want you to call a paraplegic “physically challenged” and get your foot run over and come back and blame me. I warned you.
Just use your best judgement or even better, ask whomever you’re encountering what they prefer to be called. If they reply with “master” just know, you’re the gimp now 😜✌🏼
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