YESSSS! I have MS and am an ambulatory wheelchair user. Do not pretend that doesn't suck a lot because you don't want to think about how easy it is for you to live your life, to go places, to access entertainment venues, educational ones, and yes, even medical sites that are difficult for people like me.
I don't have a physical disability but I agree. I'm disabled because there are things i unable to do. I don't do them differently, I just can't do them. I've accepted that, it doesn't bother me, there's plenty I can do. Also arguably everyone is "differently abled" there are a lot of people who do basic things differently than "the norm" for one reason or another, but they don't have to live off a disability check.
the "normals" normally cannot relate to we disabled they try to favour us in spite of our "deficiencies" as there is a word "disabled" considering one as "lesser" not in as is said "true inclusion" and "softening reality" everyone cut political correctness and stay real ! disabilities are real we should not have to feel weak or wrong for life imposing them on our existence we must remember it is simply not in their life experience, and so they cannot relate to or cannot accept them in us --- let's all just keep 💟 trying to live
@@ChrisPage68 That was her point. What's really disempowering is being told you can't use a word that you chose to use to describe yourself. #thoughtcrime
I commented in Molly's video how I first heard "differently abled" from the 90's TV show "ER" where the disabled dr with crutches yelled at another dr for calling someone disabled and said to use "differently abled" instead. I swear I could hear Molly's eyes roll as she responded about how the media got it wrong, again. LOL. Also, "perfectly functioning meat legs" is the funniest thing I've heard this week.
I'm disabled...I'm NOT differently abled...that seems so condescending. I don't like handicapped either. I'm a person first, but disabled isn't bad...it just is.
Interestingly enough, others consider "disabled" to be condescending. It's personal preference. I consider handicapped and disabled basically the same. It labels the person instead of explains or describes. To me, it's because the literal definition of disabled means "not abled" and that is so not true. If it is people first or similar to, "47% of people who have disabilities say..." I think that language is better than "Little Johnny is disabled" or "Disabled Johnny lives next door."
I've spent the last decade with a left leg that doesn't work enough to operate unassisted. I honestly use the word crippled. Why you might ask. Well, I see it this way the word crippled means that the person is suffering from a crippling injury or illness. It says nothing about the person themselves. It only describes the situation illness or injury.
Aaaargh. I hate the term! I have a disability, it impacts on what I'm able to do. 'Differently abled' suggests I can't walk very well but you should see me levitate. Nope.
@@zweks Agreed. People know what you mean, if they are bigoted against disabled people, in their mind they auto-translate to "retard" or whatever hateful word they like. All that did was ruin the word "special" and obfuscate what you mean, cause then you might have to ask "What did they go to college at 13 or something?"
(i have a cognitive issue, so please let me know if you can't understand something i say! i did try hard to make understandable) I'm fairly strongly in favour of 'disabled' and other identity first language, simply because,, it is a part of me and will (mostly) forever be a part of me. My autism, for example, is not something that can be separated from me as it a fundamentally affects how I see the world, I am autistic, my autism is an intrinsic part of who I am (not that being autistic doesn't cause problems for me tho). With my other conditions, i just,, don't see the point in sugar-coating [i am bad at expressions, this may be misplaced?] the truth. Yes, my life is disrupted by my chronic illnesses, and therefore I am disabled Also, the disabled community is amazing, and that is one of the reasons why I love the term 'disabled'
Interesting topic! When I was teaching, I heard the term 'differently abled' a number of times describing how things would need to be adapted for a particular student. It always seemed like a vague, yet polite term. Most of the time it was specialists who used that term in meetings. I would often have to ask for a description of the specific disability to understand what was going to be needed. So I understand why you feel that it's a well-meaning term but not the best one to use. Thank you!
It's funny but I never minded the term 'disabled' either. In fact, being a first year amputee, I tend to take advantage of some of the things afforded to us now in modern society such as special parking or jumping to the front of the security line in the airport because I know how much I am disadvantaged nowadays in many aspects of my life. But I was also introduced to the term 'adaptive' (such as instead of being a disabled person I am an adaptive person). This was introduced to me by the IM Able foundation that runs the crossfit gym where I work out. It is owned by an ex-marine who had nerve damage from battle and so cannot walk for long stretches. But he believes not in denying but recognizing our disabilities and adapting to them in order to make forward progress. I got to know his foundation and gym by a fellow amputee who not only is a bk amputee but also is missing part of one arm and her other hand. But she is probably much more fit these days than I was pre-injury. I believe it is very healthy to acknowledge one's disabilities but also to move on and adapt to them as much as our own spirit, energy, and aids can allow us.
To me, differently abled is meaningless. We are all "differently" abled, in that no two of us have the same abilities. I'm good at photography, while you might be good at poetry, just like I'm good at wheelchair racing while someone else might be good at running.
The absolute, unequivocal, emphatic bottom of my list is crippled. Anyone who calls me that (unless they're really old and came up in a time when it was acceptable) will not like what happens
With autism there is a similar discussion, it's person first language vs identity first language (person with autism vs autistic person). Personally, I am autistic. Of course, when it flows better in a sentence, I'll say something more along the lines of having autism, but I prefer identity first language. Here too it is often well intentioned people who aren't autistic who would like to separate the autism from the person. But my autism is a fundamental part of who I am, every single though that goes through my mind is in some way affected by my autism. My autism cannot be separated from me, taking a "cure" would be akin to suicide, because the person at the other side of the "cure" would not be me. So person first language ends up only serving to make the speaker more comfortable, because that way they can ignore me being autistic. Why would I even want to treat it different from my other attributes? I am gay, not a person with homosexuality. I am Dutch, not a person with Dutchness.
My oldest daughter is on the spectrum and has always preferred "autistic" as opposed to "person with autism" for many of the same reason, unless the person personally expresses a preference for the people-first version.
That really makes sense. With disability, it isn't my identity. But I wasn't born with it, and it's a physical disability, so it isn't part of my identity, exactly. So for me, it is very offensive when someone only sees my disability. I prefer "people with disabilities" as opposed to the "the disabled" but generally use/am ok with whatever flows better in a sentence. I hate it greatly when someone refers to a person with a disability as "a disabled". It's awkward, and not a noun, so it's like going of their way to take the person out of it, and see only the disability.
@@beckiehubley5798 That sounds like someone who went to "the school for kids who can't read too good" lol. I've never heard someone say that but being so stupid does indeed make it sound purposely offensive
@Penultimate Hortator Hmmmm idk. Does that ring true for you? Like they can't hear an oncoming train or a car horn or a bear crashing through the woods. Being deaf doesn't make you lesser and it's totally possible to overcome, but the key word is "overcome." As in get over an obstacle.
I have Cerebral Palsy - basically brain damage - I have had it since birth. I grew up around a LOT of ableism and did not learn ANYTHING academically about disabled culture until college (taught by all nondisabled people.) I used to not even use the word "disability" ever. I bought into what I was taught in college, that person first language was the ONLY respectful way to refer to people with disabilities. But in the last 5 years, I've come to embrace "disabled" and my identity as a disabled woman. I really dislike when nondisabled people change my language in written work (I'm a blogger) so that it makes them feel more comfortable. It's been a process for me. It's okay for language preferences to grow and evolve as we do. Thanks for this video, Jo. I really related and appreciate it, and I love your channels.
"Differently abled" and "special needs" are terms I can't stand. I used to be person first (ie, person with a disability) , but changed to identity first (disabled). Why? Because I am disabled (spina bifida), and there's nothing wrong with that.
I have Cerebral Palsy. So, my entire life I have been disabled. I want to know what dumb-ass came up with differently-abled lol I get treated like crap like kicked of stores cause I’m in a wheelchair
I mean, for decades, the education world has used "differing abilities" (not differently abled) as a progressive term to describe disability because the prefix 'dis' means 'not' 'un' or 'negative' implying that someone with a disability does not have any abilities. Look at it from the lense of hearing, "Oh, that's the disabled class" verses "That is the classroom for children with differing abilities." It gives back some independence. Also saying someone is disabled uses the word as a noun and isn't people first language. Many believe saying 'has a disability' or "has differing abilities' prevents defining a person by their differences, but instead describes a person. I do think that this is a personal preference topic. Most people I know who have a disorder or disability prefer not to use the word "disability" to define them, but a few I know do. On another note, that is so sucky you have been kicked out of stores. That is not okay. I'm sorry you are discriminated upon.
@@sarahelizavoldy I think my real beef is that, if you are bigoted, you don't care what the word is. Like just because you say "homosexual" doesn't mean you aren't thinking "fag." Political correctness doesnt give or take independence, it gives words power. It's an infinitely sliding scale, the more times you edit a word the more power the original word has. "Disabled" is scientifically accurate, you've had an ability taken away that most people have. I can't lift 500lbs which makes me "unable" to do so, because it's not assumed that I could do that in the first place. It's very contextual. I can say "homosexual" in a manner that clearly shows if I have ill will toward gay people. Just as I can say "differing abilities" in a way that's clearly mocking those people. It's why I really like Molly Burke's explanation, it shows a distinct lack of comfort with the topic. Or worse, you are trying desperately to hide your bigotry by using some buzzword you heard on the news. But I tend toward brutal truth rather than trying to skirt around an issue, sometimes to my own detriment
Skeets McGrew I put my stuff on the counter go to pay he’s like I don’t want people like you in my store. I asked what he meant. “ don’t want cripples in my store.
Hey jo, I enjoyed your post. I'm 70 years old and like you I've had a left BKA following a crush injury after falling from a ladder. I've been referred to as being differenty able. I find it insulting as though I'm being treated as a child and somehow the person feels as though they're cheering me up. I don't need cheering me up! I've accepted my condition and have moved on. I don't think about it anymore. I simply go about my day and my life. I'm a farmer and yes it takes me longer to mend a broken fence or round up the cattle. My wife doesn't try to help me but occasionally does the chores only because she can and we share the duties, and we're good friends. Having an artificial leg is just part of me and I just want people to treat me the same as they would anyone else.
My oldest daughter told me about Molly Burke. We like her videos. I have a deep hatred of the term differently-abled I'm crippled/disabled I can and do live with it,(not that I have a choice but still) it's what I am. Calling me cripple/disabled isn't an insult it's a fact. I too prefer calling a spade a spade. I think many people saying differently abled have their heart in the right place but need to realize that it's better to ask what a person prefers to be called and learn why. It will go a long way in helping them understand where we are coming from and why we feel the way we do.
THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!!! That is EXACTLY what I’ve been THINKING but couldn’t express!!! I had a cycling accident 4 years ago and landed on my head. Short version...I sustained an adult ‘shaken baby syndrome’ brain injury. SOOOO many people have tried to make me “feel better” by saying I’m “differently abled” now - and I couldn’t express WHY I hated that phrase so much!!! I *wanted* to tell them, “actually....my *whole* f-ing life was just turned upside down! Doctors say I can no longer perform my job as a software engineer!!! I *have* all the same abilities....now, I just *don’t* have some!
Being called "differently-abled" makes me want to crawl out of my skin and just slip into the void. *I am disabled.* I've had multiple surgeries and treatments to try and mitigate my disability. I spent over a year of my life practically housebound and mostly bedbound because of it. For a long time after regaining some degree of freedom, I still couldn't walk without forearm crutches. I'll probably be in physical therapy multiple times a week for the rest of my life. And even though, three years later, I have fought back for a lot of my mobility and independence, I still wear joint braces and I still occasionally need my crutches to walk. *To call me "differently-abled" feels like a belittlement of all I have achieved (both physically and mentally) to be where I am today, as a proudly disabled person.*
I had a website way back when we had to use html codes even to show a picture. I coined the term for myself as disAbled or disAbility. (note the big A) In many ways I am disabled & in many ways I am abled. In my day to day life pretty much no one says ANY words to describe my limitations except what I take as a compliment, "I don't know how you do this..." my answer is always either "Neither do I or because I have to or it won't get done at all."
Totally agree with you. I work with adults with disabilities and part of the mission of the company is “we change the world for people with varying abilities” which drive me crazy!! They have a disability. Why use more words than necessary to describe a condition??? Ugh
For some reason i feel this way with mental illnesses, like 'yeah, im deppressed, you dont need to joke about how you are too or how all of us are because thats not true nessesarily you arent deppressed, you dont know what its like, and you shouldnt be trying to downplay what im struggling with and trying to make it seem normal.' i want to say that to those people so badly right now. and also 'you can also ask me questions ahout things like do i have any triggers or how do i feel right now because i might seem happier latley, as long as you dont force me to im fine with that, that makes me feel better because then it shows that you actually care enough to ask and you arent just downpllaying everything you're acknowledging that i have been through something hard.'
Totally with you on this one. Also loved Molly Burke’s take on it. I’m still thinking on the question of “disabled” vs “chronically ill” and this isn’t unrelated. I have a number of conditions that are variable and my level of “disability” changes all the time. I’d also say my level of “disability” changes according to what equipment and adjustments are available. But ultimately, I fit the definition you just gave and in order to access financial support and services I have to identify myself as disabled. Differently abled is not what I am, for sure, unless you count eg my ability to extend my joints to disturbing degrees as a party trick and consequence of my genetic condition! But, on the evolution of the term “differently abled” I’d say it served a purpose for a time but is no longer needed. I’m about 10 years older than you so grew up in the 80s and 90s. Through the 90s the term “politically correct” came to the fore in a big way. At the same time young people with disabilities in the UK were being integrated into mainstream education for the first time. There was greater acceptance of some differences and a desire not to write people off as “handicapped” or less than. It was, I think, a reaction to what had been a long history of discarding disabled people into institutions. Using terms like “visually impaired” was also important because folks were so ignorant that they though all blind people see absolutely nothing. There was also a shift to putting the person first eg “person with a disability” not “disabled person”. It’s stuck, as you say, unfortunately, as a way of virtue signalling by people who actually are uncomfortable with disability. We’re seeing something similar around race at the moment - recent events have brought the hand wringing white liberals to a place where they either get into action or they honour their discomfort with acknowledging white privilege and white supremacy over and above their desire for justice. In the past few years the whole movement around identity has been huge and it’s more possible to really declare your identity and demand it is respected. And more people are prepared to “call a spade a spade” and f**k politeness aka trying to make the oppressor feel better about their judgements, discomfort, and bigotry. Thanks for being part of this important conversation xx
Hi Jo. I was born with a mild version of spina bifida, in that I could walk, but my right foot I could not move, my left foot was twisted with limited movement, and I had paralysis in my lower legs. No one ever called me disabled or handicapped, because I charged ahead and did what I wanted to do, albeit with adjustments. I rode horses, was a lifeguard, learned to fly a plane, did long-distance biking, and scuba dived. At times I would get highly frustrated, then figure out how to do what I wanted. But, I had limitations. Did people treat me differently? Of course, it depended on the situation. At work, no .. that was about performance, and being driven as I am, my "disability" was never an issue. But socially .. of course. Did it bother me? Of course, especially when I was younger. I think the hard thing for ANYONE is to accept themselves .. the good and the bad. It's so easy to compare to others. But now I could care less what people think. I'm open and honest about my issues, and I think if you can laugh and accept your situation, it puts others at ease. People can't help their knee-jerk reactions to someone with a visible physical issue. I think their first (secret) reaction is .. "thank God that's not me." I've had people ask me how I could be happy .. they couldn't imagine being happy with a disability. And, let's all be honest .. no one in their right mind would want or wish a disability on anyone; or desire a child to be born with a disability. No one wants a limb cut off. A year ago I had my left foot amputated, due to the long-term issues with my twisted left foot. This is the first time in my life I've felt disabled. I'm a pro with a wheelchair and crutches ... I'm just now getting around my prosthetic, and I think with a lot of hard work I'll be better off than I was. This PC crap of calling someone "special" or "differently-abled" ... I agree it's BS. I think it's people struggling with their own internal horror at your situation and their guilt that they don't have it .. And let's all be honest .. it sucks a big one. It's not like it's a life goal to be limited physically. It's not like people pray that their newborns are blind, missing limbs or paralyzed. Everyone wants health and full function. I look at it ... it's my situation, instead of lying on the floor weeping and have a pity party .. you have to get up and do the best with what you have. I've done a heck of a lot in my life living with paralysis .. I plan on dealing with the new challenge and doing as much as I can now with the prosthetic. And in the end .. that's what we all have to do. Life is not fair. Some people get more, some people get a lot less. But .. we ALL have control over our attitude. I've enjoyed watching your channel, Jo. I'm still learning about the being an amputee thing.
Ironically enough, in Italy - a country where there's been a huge effort in portraying people with disability in the most politically correct way possible, where tv hosts USE the term differently abled - the general public, the PEOPLE roll teir eyes everytime because here is significantly worse to try and sugar coat conditions which cause a very real disadvantage in society, and decide to call people "disabled" or "people with disability" to avoid denying the limitation one can have due to that condirtion, which is the definition of disability itself, at least in the most validated sources produced here.
Thankyou! I have a physical disability too. Your opinion is the same as mine. I'm currently needing to respond soon to a new friend (old friend of my aunt's) who emailed "I sincerely believe Disability is just a word...." I have several choice responses to that but don't want to explode at her. She is very much a caring person. Plus she had a son who died in kindergarten of a rare disease.
The term differently abled makes me cringe. 'Disabillity' is just a fact, nothing bad about it. 'Handicapped' makes me feel less worthy as a person, because of the meaning. Able bodied people are afraid of speaking the truth i guess, probably because it makes them uncomfortable. Luckily most people are just not educated.
I was listening to a podcast not too long ago about a social psychologist explaining his reasoning on how to “solve all problems” in the world. As a psych major, it really intrigued me. He said that the one “fix all” solution is education. Teaching, researching, listening to others, and just having knowledge can really help close gaps. I really resonated with it especially with everything going on. I love these kinds of vids because it does just that! One day, we can only hope, everyone can get a good education.
You have a great outlook about yourself. I am not an amputee, but I do have a disability and chronic illnesses. I do not generally call myself disabled even though I am. I try to be very open to everyone about my issues and don't think I am treated differently. For the most part, my issues are not visible. I don't mind being called disabled. I definitely don't like the term differently abled. Like you, I like calling a spade a spade.
for myself as someone who is 3 years into crps and a disability... I think I hesitate to refer to myself as disabled is because I feel like that is such a specific respected situation... I think in some ways I don't want to cheapen the definition for those who have it worse than me... even tho yes, according to the definition, I absolutely fall under those terms. I feel like people could say "well you don't look disabled" or "well people have it worse than you", so K hesitate using that term for myself. I think you're right: we just have to own it.. and if those around us think we are using it improperly, then 🤷♀️
It's funny to watch people try to wriggle around the word 'stroke'. My husband will occasionally ask "Stroke moment?" when he thinks I'm struggling. People act like he's called me something terrible.
I have CRPS in my left knee which is technically a disability. I really don’t like referring to myself as disabled though, not because I don’t like the term or anything, but more because I often feel like it’s not serious enough to qualify as a disability, like my whole body is still perfectly functional I just have a lot of pain. When I’m having bad episodes (like when I ended up in A&E being told that they couldn’t give me anything else for pain because I was already on everything, nothing could touch my leg because it felt like it was burning every time something did, it was multicoloured and had seized up or when I passed out from being on too much pain medication) I felt like maybe it does apply to me, maybe it is severe enough that I am disabled, but when my pain is more manageable like not (I’m not even on crutches at the moment!) I feel like referring to myself as disabled kind of trivialises other people’s struggles who have it worse than me.
Coming from someone with mental- llness type disabilities, I think the term "disabled" can be seen as a bit black-and-white. Like you're either disabled, or your not. It doesn't cater for those fluctuations that happen in many conditions, yet my condition can be disabling. It is complicated.
I think you bring up a really good point - that's so true, we do look at it in a very THIS or THAT, black or white context...and its much more complicated than that!
@@FootlessJo Exactly. We're also starting to swing towards the ablest culture too now. It is going to be tricky for me once I'm out working (final year of uni before I can teach high school students in Australia). It is vital that teachers focus on student's strengths so that they can grow and learn. But at the same time, I question deeply whether it is ethical to encourage people into professions that they don't have the inherent capabilities for. For example, I wouldn't pass a psychometric exam due to my mental illness, which is needed to be a police officer or serve in the Army. I know people who can't be flight attendants because they're a little bit too short to qualify (that's not even a disability). Should we nudge people into careers that could be interesting and suit them more, or do we watch someone fail at something that they will never achieve (you cannot fly a plane if you're blind)? At the same time, there are many professions where reasonable adjustments can be made, and people should be included in them if they are the 'right person for the job,' not just someone to help the statistics to make a company look good (tokenism). This is getting deep.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this subject. As an able bodied person, I try not to use the term "differently abled" because it sounds mildly belittling, with a dose of sugar coating. It just feels wrong in my mouth, like mayonnaise that's gone off.
Nowadays the politically correct word in Sweden is in translation "function altered" not "function hindered", in other words abilitity altered. We have a special radio show some periods of the year called "Funkisradio" and they wish us to use the word "funkis" for people with disabilities.
Differently abled is utter tosh... I'm disabled. I have something that disables my ability to do many things. A lot of things. In fact being able to do things is a luxury I don't get every day. When I was diagnosed with ms, I was peeved when I found out I was "automatically" classed as disabled with this diagnosis. Yeah it's true and I've been disabled for a long time before. But ugh it felt soo horrible being told outright "this makes you disabled no matter what". - it leaves many people with ms feeling like frauds because their ms is not hugely impactful in their life.
To me differently abled feels weird cause it can apply to basically everybody. Some people can run a marathon and others can climb a mountain and others can learn a new language every few years. We all have different abilities already, so for that to be attached to disability, which to me has specific life experiences and discrimination and culture built around it, feels like the person is completely erasing my identity as a disabled person.
So personally I have learning disabilities called dyslexia. Dyslexic is a genetic condition where part my 6th chromosome is missing and this means there less connection between the two side of my brain. Having been called differently able because I learning differently "apparently". There is some true that statement because I learning differently I have been able to help people understand something they are having hard time with something. But here thing I still have use my hands to know which letter is a "d" or "b". I have use speech to text to spell most words. When writing something I still leave words out sentence that thought I put there. It still take me longer to read things. There are things still can't do that I will forever struggle with. So I will always be dyslexic. I will always have disability.
Handicap or Cripple are THE worst by far! You got it one! These sayings are normally used by people who are uncomfortable about dealing or describing people with disabilities. So they try to be PC by using terms like Differently abled, limb difference etc. We are individuals that have a disability/disabilities or adaption but it’s not all of us, it is just a part of our lives. I like to call myself adaptive and I don’t really mind the word disabled but I wish there was a more positive word hence why I say adaptive 🤗🥰
I know I'm late here, but still wanted to drop that I experienced the words "differently abled" as insult only. It was somewhere between 2005-2009, when the political correctness became a topic in my country or when the topic got popular in my area. People were straight up laughing at it, not because they wanted to laugh at disabled people, at people of colour, of different religion, ethnicity and what not. It was just, that the political correctness was over the top, making issues from things which weren't issues. We do have words to insult people who are different, sure, but they wanted us to stop using word for black person (neutral meaning, nothing insulting), to say instead African-American, the word disabled to say differently abled (what's wrong with disabled? There are words which really insult people), they literally decided to not only make insulting words uncool (what I can only support, insulting others isn't cool!), but also normal, regular words, making people laugh at the whole concept of political correctness and causing people staying distant from anyone who's different to not insult them by accident, i.e. fearing that the word disabled may be perceived by disabled people as insult. We don't have many people of colour, at that time about 99% of the country was white & mostly also native, now it changes a bit. The disabled people were rarely to see in public, they have own schools for kids with special needs, although they tried later to make disabled people more visible by putting them in regular schools and starting acommodating. The only context when I heard "differently abled", was in class, when someone was acting up during the lesson and either classmates were calling him that to not curse in the presence of a teacher and not get in troubles, or... teachers themself, telling us to ignore Y or Z, because they cannot help it and are differently abled - it may sound nice, but the tone left no doubts how it's meant. So yeah. As I graduated, I never heard people using these words again, so the only association with them isn't nice and would I hear someone saying it now, I would probably think it's meant as hidden insult. 🙈 I really see nothing wrong with the word disabled, the person isn't fully anled, for me that term states facts only, they might be harsh, but making up words to hide the real meaning feels more like either being very sensitive or causing the others think that disability is no big deal and hence the accomodations (i.e. elevators in buildings with stairs only, ramps, buttons to open the door, not only knobs etc.) aren't needed and this can be a bit dangerous. Of course, when disabled person tells me I should use another words than disabled, I can do it, I don't wanna upset people. 🙈
I identify as temporarily disabled as I have a severe hip labrum tear that requires the use of mobility aids and I do have an upcoming surgery that should resolve the issue (hence the temporary) and my father is "legally" disabled which people often see as being more legit than if the government doesnt recognize it. Differently able when I first heard of it made me think of super heros as in people who have additional abilities to a "normal" human not less.
Yes!! Not a fan of “differently abled”! I think it’s because people are trying to not discriminate against anyone or hurt others feelings (just like this whole racism thing), but they really just don’t understand. I am disabled & not ashamed of it at all! 😊
From what I’ve seen, Wokeness seems to be a response to the cruelty of the past, but one that swings WAY in the other direction. It switches “F*****” to “Oh your so brave!” And manages to miss the point entirely. People are people, and a lot of people are different. And color-blindness won’t fix wealth inequality and calling a person in a wheel chair “differently abled” doesn’t put ramps on buildings. And acknowledging that we are all equal doesn’t mean we’re all the same. And being scared to think about a person’s skin color or look at a person’s prosthetic doesn’t make it go away. It fills your whole mind with that part of them. I’m far from perfect at this, partly because I’m bad at people generally. But I just try to keep in mind that everyone’s traits (race, sexuality, disability) would probably be better off treated as normal instead of ridiculed or danced around.
I said this on Molly’s video and I’ll say it again. As someone with invisible disability, I HATE DIFFERENTLY ABLED. It sounds very condescending. Also, with invisible illness it takes a lot sometimes to say “ heck yeah I’m disabled!” It’s hard to believe your own feelings when others can’t see it. No, I’m not “differently abled” i AM disabled. Get over yourself
I agree that disabled should not be regarded as inherently bad. I also struggle with using certain terminology myself to describe my own disability. I definitely understand the impulse to not want to offend those that are different, but much like with mental illness, having these conversations to help bring awareness will help move the conversation at large in the right direction. On a side note, I might suggest that you try to phase 'call a spade a spade' out of your vocabulary as it can for many black people be seen as offensive as spade has, unfortunately, become synonymous with black people in a derogatory manner. Simply saying that you're calling it as it is would get the same message across and not risk offending anyone.
I'm about as progressive as it gets and I still refer to myself as "disabled." The "woke" terminology seems like self-congratulatory virtue signaling to me.
In my language there is no word for "disabled" so the word is "handicapt," wit h includes, physical and mentaly. Now I do understand your stance on this "differently-abled" from your point of vieuw it does not recognize the struggle to do things, but I think another way of seeing it would be like you do need to do things diffently to come to the same result as someone with all his "rings and bells". I never as questions to begin with, and secondly if I feel help might be usefull I ask first and yes "no" is fine too, but I was glad to let them know I was and still are there if they need it. Its not ment in a patronizing way, I would do the same for an elderly or child or anybody else in a "situation" just like I expect it if I fall that someone offers me a hand to stand up again. Help does not mean you get it because you are disabled but because you might need it. But its something to consider as how we nominate conditions and how we handle them.
Oh Jo, you make me laugh and I know you weren't even trying. "I know I'm missing a part of my leg. There's no reason to tiptoe around it." You are amazing
Haha I totally was NOT trying! 😆 The amount of times I say stuff like that is hilarious to me....I'm totally unaware sometimes! Lol! Thanks for your comment 😊
I think that as with most expressions it’s generally more important that words are used without malice than the exact grammar used. Also different phrases are acceptable in different places such as handicapped and coloured people are often used in the US but disabled and black seem more common in the UK. This is also changing quite noticeably at the moment as people of colour is starting to be heard more frequently in the UK these days. There will never be a time when everyone universally agrees what is acceptable language as it’s a living thing that constantly evolves.
I prefer identity first language because person first always sounds, to me, like I can take my disability off as if it's an attachment. I always try to use vision impaired too, instead of visually impaired. As far as I'm aware, I haven't become transparent in any way. :)
I'm on long-term disability with Social Security. I had a hard time accepting the term disabled but it does fit my situation as I'm not able to work at this time. My disability isn't obvious to people. I've always thought the term "differently abled" was odd and it certainly doesn't apply to me.
I'm autistic. I've seen people say that autism is not a disability or simply calling autistic people differently-abled. I'm disabled, I'm autistic. My autism is absolutely disabling and that's ok. Disability is not an awful thing and it is not a scary thing, it's simply what I am since I don't function as many other people do. There is also a discussion of whether you should say 'I have autism' or "I am autistic'. Autism is a part of me, it is my brain structure, so I don't have it. I've seen parents or 'professionals' like doctors and therapists insisting on 'has autism'. These people often talk over autistic people and ignore what we want to be called. My autism is not a bad thing or an insult, so I will call myself disabled and autistic.
I have SM and people starting to act strange when I tell them that I have this thing. They don’t even try to ask what the hell is SM. But this is normal thing. When you talking with someone disabled and you are interested in this disability you just try to not ask about it to not hurt the feelings of the disabled person
I'm older then most of those posting or watching this. As a child Handicap was the common choice prior to disabled. The disability community as a whole rejected Handicapped due to it's perceived connection with beggars holding out their caps for money. I've never seen or heard anything to confirm (or disprove) this origin. In the long run though..... I prefer handicapped because I see it more like golf, where it just takes most of us (depending on our disability) extra work to reach the same goal so a "handicap" of X points is supposed to make the game more balanced. But, some of us really are disabled and when you get down to it my own issues are significant enough I can't really compete at all against "normal" people in the long run at any job even if my job specific performance outstrips theirs. In the end though, any term outside these 2 that isn't specific to our/your disability is a insult. That includes "differently-abled". It's as if some "normal" person went out of their way to try and find a inclusive term when all they really needed to do was just say hello and welcome.
Differently Abled is sooo cringey! I agree with you and Molly. Please, if you say Differently Abled, stop!! Immediately cease and desist with that “woke” garbage.
Im an amputee now for about 6 weeks, i lost my lower leg after 6 years of fighting, but I'm definetly more comfortable with being called disabled instead of 'differently abled'. it just doesn't feel like right word that descirbes me. I'm disabled, and thats a part of me, thats how you can describe me, no need to sugarcoat the reality :D
In Faroese - my native language - I have heard phrases used by healthcare people like seeing and not seeing, hearing and not hearing persons. I think it's an attempt at a technical and politically correct language without using negative words like blind and deaf. Not sure how that system would work with amputees, though. Limbed and not limbed? No, that wouldn't work. Thought I'd mention, because it seems to follow from the "differently abled" language
I have a disability as well. I can so relate to this video. At one point in my life (awhile back) I thought I was more comfertable with the term differently abled. Looking back I see that I was not really comertable at all but it seemed to make other people more confortable so I went with it. I don't anymore. You are right call a spade a spade. That being said not a fan of the word cripple.
I have my own journey as a lbka. I also have personal experience as I have two brothers that are disabled. They don't see themselves as different in anyway. So as I continue on my journey I'll remember that I'm not different. I'm just me.
As a person without a disability, I dont quite get the handicapped vs disabled thing... maybe its cause english isnt my first language, but when I hear disabled, I think 'not functional at all'. If I disable a lock, my door wont close. If I disable an alarm, it wont tell me theres a fire. It just wont work. But if a person is disabled, theyre still a person that can function in society to at least some extent. They might have some issues with some (or even many) things, but theyre still a normal human. So Ive always thought handicapped seems more fitting... I dont see a handicap as limiting someone to not being able to get as far, but rather that theyll have to work harder to get there. For instance, the cycling vid. Getting on and off was a bit slower, but aside from that, no problems. A handicap in terms of speed. But still very much *able* to do it... I hope this kinda makes sense? And yes, obviously her choice of word is more important, Im more curious about why handicapped seems to be frowned upon a bit more in general. (I totally concur on differently abled though, that one just sounds like someone is taking the piss...)
I hear you....before it was clear that I was disabled by having amputation, people would often tell me that. And its not reassuring - because its like, great, I look fine but am NOT and its hard to convince people sometimes. Invisible disabilities and illnesses and pain are some of the hardest to deal with.
Yeah ive had chronic migraines since childhood and it is not a difference of ability. What am i able to do thats different? Feel terrible pain in my head? Beg to go home from work early because im nauseous and dizzy? It's just a disability. It does not convert into something useful or cool. It just sucks.
Generally speaking I don’t like to use the term disabled as a way to label myself. I prefer not to put a label on myself and what I can and cannot do. Yes I have a disability, but I don’t view myself as disabled. I’m much more likely to say I am not able bodied than I am disabled, but if I had to label myself for the sake of someone else, I’d definitely call myself disabled long before I’d ever call myself handicapped or differently abled
I’m on the Autism Spectrum and I used to use both disabled and differently able to describe myself probably because of a combination of not realizing that it could mean I’m uncomfortable with my disability and also probably trying to make the person I’m talking with more comfortable.
To my mind, "Differently Abled" is a nonsense term (we all have different abilities, whether were Disabled or non-disabled) made up so that non-disabled people can feel comfortable by avoiding saying Disabled. I AM Disabled. I am not a "person with a disability". I work to the Social Model of Disability. Society disables me by failing to include me. My impairments are my own business. They are not part of the discussion. I also despise "Handicapped", which bizarrely still seems acceptable in the US - which I was led to believe was the birthplace of the Disability Rights Movement. 🤦😤 In short (I'm 4' 11", so I know all about shortness!), "DA" is a perfect example of the phrase: "You can't polish a 💩 - only roll it in glitter."
Here in Sweden we have four words as ba label for us with disabilities. And yes i will translate them as good as i can to english. One is handickapped. Yes we have that word to and not a fan due to where it comes from. Then we have our verion of disabled bwish is functionally impaired (funktionsnedsatt) wish i am okay with to. Functionally variated though i have mixed feelins about as it is our version of differently abled. And last a wqord i am not a fan of. Functionally hindered. We are not the hindrence. A stair without an elevator or ramp is a functionally hindrence..
This is the first time I’ve ever heard the term differently abled. It wouldn’t bother me. I’m a little more then twice your age and I guess people’s words don’t bother me when they are well intentioned. I had a bk amputation in 2015. I also have disabilities people can’t see. I have no vestibular system so I walk like I’m drunk. Like you I also suffer from chronic pain. People make way worse comments about those conditions IMHO. But I understand where you are coming and I think it’s up to the individual how you feel about it and we probably probably really don’t need some woke person coming up with new descriptions of us....
I'm disabled, idk that I necessarily hate the word "differently abled". I don't believe anyone's called me that, but I feel like if they did I wouldn't care that much. I'd just think there trying to be respectful of the situation. But most ppl just say Disabled or chronically sick/ill, I don't think they've said anything else like handycap or differently abled to me.
No, disability is not bad. Yes, it’s a struggle to deal with, but it never truly stops a persons lifelong dreams or life itself. Even Beethoven, who is very well known today as a accomplished musician, was almost completely deaf. Though I can say from experience that it only becomes a true burden for someone before they understand and accept the disability. I personally, am deaf in my right ear. I use the term deaf instead of “hearing impaired” because that is the term I have heard from my doctors, teachers, parents, and other family members throughout my life.
I think that some of it comes from the ideologies within the deaf and autism groups. Possibly a twisting from the social method/theory about disability (because the world is designed for people who are neurotypical and non-disabled people). I've also seen the idea in the ADHD, among other places. Personal don't like it. And while I don't fit the tax break definition. I have several chronic illnesses so I'm thinking that I belong more and more.
This is more "woke" than the people who think they are woke. Thank you! I found your channel about a week ago when I was looking for something to watch besides covid and BLM stuff.
This is a technological difficulty. Better, more advance cybernetics will remove any "disability" our somewhat simple prosthetics inflict on their users. What I'm saying is, support advances in prosthetics.
Always thought that people HAD/HAVE handicaps or disabilities but not that they WERE/ARE handicapped or disabled. Though that's not a perfect solution because you can only say that someone IS blind.
That depends hugely on the person. Some prefer person-first language ("person with a disability") and some prefer identity first language ("disabled person"). Some people consider their disability a huge part of who they are, some don't. Some subscribe to the medical model, some to the social model. I think from birth vs genetic but develops later vs acquired plays into it a huge amount too It's way more complex than it seems.
I hate hate hate that second word. Don't get me wrong...it's fine for someone to be ok with it. But I've had it used against me as an insult...and I just hate it. I also hate the word cripple.
@@beckiehubley5798 I understand. I refer to myself as "gimpy", a deep south thing I guess? HOW it's said can easily change things, same with "disabled". Phrasing and tone of voice are everything! Speedy AKA: Hero Hog, Dr. Speed and "That fat, old, balding, grey-bearded, gimpy guy" USN-DAV, NRA Life Member
![Whats wrong with me? // My Disabilities (Updated) [CC]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/5nJJGkx0igY/mqdefault.jpg)
When someone tells me I'm "differently-abled" not "disabled" I always feel likes it's an erasure of my struggles and the accommodations I need.
YESSSS! I have MS and am an ambulatory wheelchair user. Do not pretend that doesn't suck a lot because you don't want to think about how easy it is for you to live your life, to go places, to access entertainment venues, educational ones, and yes, even medical sites that are difficult for people like me.
I don't have a physical disability but I agree. I'm disabled because there are things i unable to do. I don't do them differently, I just can't do them. I've accepted that, it doesn't bother me, there's plenty I can do.
Also arguably everyone is "differently abled" there are a lot of people who do basic things differently than "the norm" for one reason or another, but they don't have to live off a disability check.
the "normals" normally cannot relate to we disabled
they try to favour us in spite of our "deficiencies" as there is a word "disabled" considering one as "lesser" not in as is said "true inclusion" and "softening reality"
everyone cut political correctness and stay real !
disabilities are real
we should not have to feel weak or wrong for life imposing them on our existence
we must remember it is simply not in their life experience, and so they cannot relate to or cannot accept them in us --- let's all just keep 💟 trying to live
"woke" = openly inclusive even to the point of reverse discrimination
Yep. Like everyone has different abilities, not everyone is disabled. It's just a fact.
I sometimes say I'm disabled or sometimes I say handicapped. I'm the one who lives with these things I decide what I want to be called.
No the PC police get to decide! Use the right words or else!
Why use the, H-word? It's disempowering. This is not the 19th century.
@@ChrisPage68 That was her point. What's really disempowering is being told you can't use a word that you chose to use to describe yourself. #thoughtcrime
I commented in Molly's video how I first heard "differently abled" from the 90's TV show "ER" where the disabled dr with crutches yelled at another dr for calling someone disabled and said to use "differently abled" instead. I swear I could hear Molly's eyes roll as she responded about how the media got it wrong, again. LOL.
Also, "perfectly functioning meat legs" is the funniest thing I've heard this week.
Angela lilfunky1 or hear her eyes shake
(Cus of her condition)
Perfectly Functioning Meat Legs is a band name...or should be.
I'm disabled...I'm NOT differently abled...that seems so condescending. I don't like handicapped either. I'm a person first, but disabled isn't bad...it just is.
Interestingly enough, others consider "disabled" to be condescending. It's personal preference. I consider handicapped and disabled basically the same. It labels the person instead of explains or describes.
To me, it's because the literal definition of disabled means "not abled" and that is so not true. If it is people first or similar to, "47% of people who have disabilities say..." I think that language is better than "Little Johnny is disabled" or "Disabled Johnny lives next door."
I've spent the last decade with a left leg that doesn't work enough to operate unassisted. I honestly use the word crippled. Why you might ask. Well, I see it this way the word crippled means that the person is suffering from a crippling injury or illness. It says nothing about the person themselves. It only describes the situation illness or injury.
@@sarahelizavoldy I would urge you to research The Social Model of Disability. Within that, we are Disabled by society more than our impairment.
Aaaargh. I hate the term! I have a disability, it impacts on what I'm able to do. 'Differently abled' suggests I can't walk very well but you should see me levitate.
Nope.
The same reason I hate "special needs" or "special abilities"! Although special needs is more fitting but still controversial
@@zweks Agreed. People know what you mean, if they are bigoted against disabled people, in their mind they auto-translate to "retard" or whatever hateful word they like. All that did was ruin the word "special" and obfuscate what you mean, cause then you might have to ask "What did they go to college at 13 or something?"
Aww man, now I want to levitate! 🤣🤣🤣
I am on disability...SSI. I have no problem saying I am disabled but some people do not get it. They don't like it...too bad!! I am who I am!!!
Over here in the UK in my corporate job we are discouraged from using disabled. This is so refreshing to hear.
💜
Love hearing your thoughts on stuff like this! Disabled isn't a bad word! 🙌💚
Thank you so much!!! 💜
(i have a cognitive issue, so please let me know if you can't understand something i say! i did try hard to make understandable)
I'm fairly strongly in favour of 'disabled' and other identity first language, simply because,, it is a part of me and will (mostly) forever be a part of me. My autism, for example, is not something that can be separated from me as it a fundamentally affects how I see the world, I am autistic, my autism is an intrinsic part of who I am (not that being autistic doesn't cause problems for me tho). With my other conditions, i just,, don't see the point in sugar-coating [i am bad at expressions, this may be misplaced?] the truth. Yes, my life is disrupted by my chronic illnesses, and therefore I am disabled
Also, the disabled community is amazing, and that is one of the reasons why I love the term 'disabled'
Interesting topic! When I was teaching, I heard the term 'differently abled' a number of times describing how things would need to be adapted for a particular student. It always seemed like a vague, yet polite term. Most of the time it was specialists who used that term in meetings. I would often have to ask for a description of the specific disability to understand what was going to be needed. So I understand why you feel that it's a well-meaning term but not the best one to use. Thank you!
It's funny but I never minded the term 'disabled' either. In fact, being a first year amputee, I tend to take advantage of some of the things afforded to us now in modern society such as special parking or jumping to the front of the security line in the airport because I know how much I am disadvantaged nowadays in many aspects of my life. But I was also introduced to the term 'adaptive' (such as instead of being a disabled person I am an adaptive person). This was introduced to me by the IM Able foundation that runs the crossfit gym where I work out. It is owned by an ex-marine who had nerve damage from battle and so cannot walk for long stretches. But he believes not in denying but recognizing our disabilities and adapting to them in order to make forward progress. I got to know his foundation and gym by a fellow amputee who not only is a bk amputee but also is missing part of one arm and her other hand. But she is probably much more fit these days than I was pre-injury. I believe it is very healthy to acknowledge one's disabilities but also to move on and adapt to them as much as our own spirit, energy, and aids can allow us.
To me, differently abled is meaningless. We are all "differently" abled, in that no two of us have the same abilities. I'm good at photography, while you might be good at poetry, just like I'm good at wheelchair racing while someone else might be good at running.
That's how I feel about "special." We are all special in our own way, just like we all have different abilities
The absolute, unequivocal, emphatic bottom of my list is crippled. Anyone who calls me that (unless they're really old and came up in a time when it was acceptable) will not like what happens
@@drewharris7785 The H-word is on my Banned list.
With autism there is a similar discussion, it's person first language vs identity first language (person with autism vs autistic person). Personally, I am autistic. Of course, when it flows better in a sentence, I'll say something more along the lines of having autism, but I prefer identity first language. Here too it is often well intentioned people who aren't autistic who would like to separate the autism from the person. But my autism is a fundamental part of who I am, every single though that goes through my mind is in some way affected by my autism. My autism cannot be separated from me, taking a "cure" would be akin to suicide, because the person at the other side of the "cure" would not be me. So person first language ends up only serving to make the speaker more comfortable, because that way they can ignore me being autistic. Why would I even want to treat it different from my other attributes? I am gay, not a person with homosexuality. I am Dutch, not a person with Dutchness.
"Person with Dutchness" 🤣🤣🤣 Damn that's savage and also a great analogy
My oldest daughter is on the spectrum and has always preferred "autistic" as opposed to "person with autism" for many of the same reason, unless the person personally expresses a preference for the people-first version.
That really makes sense. With disability, it isn't my identity. But I wasn't born with it, and it's a physical disability, so it isn't part of my identity, exactly. So for me, it is very offensive when someone only sees my disability. I prefer "people with disabilities" as opposed to the "the disabled" but generally use/am ok with whatever flows better in a sentence. I hate it greatly when someone refers to a person with a disability as "a disabled". It's awkward, and not a noun, so it's like going of their way to take the person out of it, and see only the disability.
@@beckiehubley5798 That sounds like someone who went to "the school for kids who can't read too good" lol. I've never heard someone say that but being so stupid does indeed make it sound purposely offensive
@Penultimate Hortator Hmmmm idk. Does that ring true for you? Like they can't hear an oncoming train or a car horn or a bear crashing through the woods. Being deaf doesn't make you lesser and it's totally possible to overcome, but the key word is "overcome." As in get over an obstacle.
I have Cerebral Palsy - basically brain damage - I have had it since birth. I grew up around a LOT of ableism and did not learn ANYTHING academically about disabled culture until college (taught by all nondisabled people.) I used to not even use the word "disability" ever. I bought into what I was taught in college, that person first language was the ONLY respectful way to refer to people with disabilities. But in the last 5 years, I've come to embrace "disabled" and my identity as a disabled woman. I really dislike when nondisabled people change my language in written work (I'm a blogger) so that it makes them feel more comfortable. It's been a process for me. It's okay for language preferences to grow and evolve as we do. Thanks for this video, Jo. I really related and appreciate it, and I love your channels.
"Differently abled" and "special needs" are terms I can't stand. I used to be person first (ie, person with a disability) , but changed to identity first (disabled). Why? Because I am disabled (spina bifida), and there's nothing wrong with that.
Me too. I also have SB.
I have Cerebral Palsy. So, my entire life I have been disabled. I want to know what dumb-ass came up with differently-abled lol I get treated like crap like kicked of stores cause I’m in a wheelchair
Wait what?! You've been kicked out of stores?! What stores, when, why?!
I mean, for decades, the education world has used "differing abilities" (not differently abled) as a progressive term to describe disability because the prefix 'dis' means 'not' 'un' or 'negative' implying that someone with a disability does not have any abilities. Look at it from the lense of hearing, "Oh, that's the disabled class" verses "That is the classroom for children with differing abilities." It gives back some independence.
Also saying someone is disabled uses the word as a noun and isn't people first language. Many believe saying 'has a disability' or "has differing abilities' prevents defining a person by their differences, but instead describes a person.
I do think that this is a personal preference topic. Most people I know who have a disorder or disability prefer not to use the word "disability" to define them, but a few I know do.
On another note, that is so sucky you have been kicked out of stores. That is not okay. I'm sorry you are discriminated upon.
@@sarahelizavoldy I think my real beef is that, if you are bigoted, you don't care what the word is. Like just because you say "homosexual" doesn't mean you aren't thinking "fag." Political correctness doesnt give or take independence, it gives words power. It's an infinitely sliding scale, the more times you edit a word the more power the original word has. "Disabled" is scientifically accurate, you've had an ability taken away that most people have. I can't lift 500lbs which makes me "unable" to do so, because it's not assumed that I could do that in the first place.
It's very contextual. I can say "homosexual" in a manner that clearly shows if I have ill will toward gay people. Just as I can say "differing abilities" in a way that's clearly mocking those people.
It's why I really like Molly Burke's explanation, it shows a distinct lack of comfort with the topic. Or worse, you are trying desperately to hide your bigotry by using some buzzword you heard on the news. But I tend toward brutal truth rather than trying to skirt around an issue, sometimes to my own detriment
Skeets McGrew I put my stuff on the counter go to pay he’s like I don’t want people like you in my store. I asked what he meant. “ don’t want cripples in my store.
@@skeetsmcgrew3282 I appreciate the response. I completely get where both sides come from, and I enjoyed Molly's explanation too.
Hey jo, I enjoyed your post. I'm 70 years old and like you I've had a left BKA following a crush injury after falling from a ladder.
I've been referred to as being differenty able. I find it insulting as though I'm being treated as a child and somehow the person feels as though they're cheering me up. I don't need cheering me up! I've accepted my condition and have moved on. I don't think about it anymore. I simply go about my day and my life. I'm a farmer and yes it takes me longer to mend a broken fence or round up the cattle. My wife doesn't try to help me but occasionally does the chores only because she can and we share the duties, and we're good friends.
Having an artificial leg is just part of me and I just want people to treat me the same as they would anyone else.
My oldest daughter told me about Molly Burke. We like her videos.
I have a deep hatred of the term differently-abled I'm crippled/disabled I can and do live with it,(not that I have a choice but still) it's what I am. Calling me cripple/disabled isn't an insult it's a fact. I too prefer calling a spade a spade. I think many people saying differently abled have their heart in the right place but need to realize that it's better to ask what a person prefers to be called and learn why. It will go a long way in helping them understand where we are coming from and why we feel the way we do.
THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH!!! That is EXACTLY what I’ve been THINKING but couldn’t express!!! I had a cycling accident 4 years ago and landed on my head. Short version...I sustained an adult ‘shaken baby syndrome’ brain injury. SOOOO many people have tried to make me “feel better” by saying I’m “differently abled” now - and I couldn’t express WHY I hated that phrase so much!!! I *wanted* to tell them, “actually....my *whole* f-ing life was just turned upside down! Doctors say I can no longer perform my job as a software engineer!!! I *have* all the same abilities....now, I just *don’t* have some!
Being called "differently-abled" makes me want to crawl out of my skin and just slip into the void. *I am disabled.* I've had multiple surgeries and treatments to try and mitigate my disability. I spent over a year of my life practically housebound and mostly bedbound because of it. For a long time after regaining some degree of freedom, I still couldn't walk without forearm crutches. I'll probably be in physical therapy multiple times a week for the rest of my life. And even though, three years later, I have fought back for a lot of my mobility and independence, I still wear joint braces and I still occasionally need my crutches to walk. *To call me "differently-abled" feels like a belittlement of all I have achieved (both physically and mentally) to be where I am today, as a proudly disabled person.*
I had a website way back when we had to use html codes even to show a picture. I coined the term for myself as disAbled or disAbility. (note the big A) In many ways I am disabled & in many ways I am abled. In my day to day life pretty much no one says ANY words to describe my limitations except what I take as a compliment, "I don't know how you do this..." my answer is always either "Neither do I or because I have to or it won't get done at all."
Totally agree with you. I work with adults with disabilities and part of the mission of the company is “we change the world for people with varying abilities” which drive me crazy!! They have a disability. Why use more words than necessary to describe a condition??? Ugh
For some reason i feel this way with mental illnesses, like 'yeah, im deppressed, you dont need to joke about how you are too or how all of us are because thats not true nessesarily you arent deppressed, you dont know what its like, and you shouldnt be trying to downplay what im struggling with and trying to make it seem normal.' i want to say that to those people so badly right now. and also 'you can also ask me questions ahout things like do i have any triggers or how do i feel right now because i might seem happier latley, as long as you dont force me to im fine with that, that makes me feel better because then it shows that you actually care enough to ask and you arent just downpllaying everything you're acknowledging that i have been through something hard.'
Totally with you on this one. Also loved Molly Burke’s take on it.
I’m still thinking on the question of “disabled” vs “chronically ill” and this isn’t unrelated. I have a number of conditions that are variable and my level of “disability” changes all the time. I’d also say my level of “disability” changes according to what equipment and adjustments are available. But ultimately, I fit the definition you just gave and in order to access financial support and services I have to identify myself as disabled. Differently abled is not what I am, for sure, unless you count eg my ability to extend my joints to disturbing degrees as a party trick and consequence of my genetic condition!
But, on the evolution of the term “differently abled” I’d say it served a purpose for a time but is no longer needed. I’m about 10 years older than you so grew up in the 80s and 90s. Through the 90s the term “politically correct” came to the fore in a big way. At the same time young people with disabilities in the UK were being integrated into mainstream education for the first time. There was greater acceptance of some differences and a desire not to write people off as “handicapped” or less than. It was, I think, a reaction to what had been a long history of discarding disabled people into institutions. Using terms like “visually impaired” was also important because folks were so ignorant that they though all blind people see absolutely nothing. There was also a shift to putting the person first eg “person with a disability” not “disabled person”.
It’s stuck, as you say, unfortunately, as a way of virtue signalling by people who actually are uncomfortable with disability. We’re seeing something similar around race at the moment - recent events have brought the hand wringing white liberals to a place where they either get into action or they honour their discomfort with acknowledging white privilege and white supremacy over and above their desire for justice.
In the past few years the whole movement around identity has been huge and it’s more possible to really declare your identity and demand it is respected. And more people are prepared to “call a spade a spade” and f**k politeness aka trying to make the oppressor feel better about their judgements, discomfort, and bigotry.
Thanks for being part of this important conversation xx
Hi Jo. I was born with a mild version of spina bifida, in that I could walk, but my right foot I could not move, my left foot was twisted with limited movement, and I had paralysis in my lower legs. No one ever called me disabled or handicapped, because I charged ahead and did what I wanted to do, albeit with adjustments. I rode horses, was a lifeguard, learned to fly a plane, did long-distance biking, and scuba dived. At times I would get highly frustrated, then figure out how to do what I wanted. But, I had limitations. Did people treat me differently? Of course, it depended on the situation. At work, no .. that was about performance, and being driven as I am, my "disability" was never an issue. But socially .. of course. Did it bother me? Of course, especially when I was younger. I think the hard thing for ANYONE is to accept themselves .. the good and the bad. It's so easy to compare to others. But now I could care less what people think. I'm open and honest about my issues, and I think if you can laugh and accept your situation, it puts others at ease.
People can't help their knee-jerk reactions to someone with a visible physical issue. I think their first (secret) reaction is .. "thank God that's not me." I've had people ask me how I could be happy .. they couldn't imagine being happy with a disability. And, let's all be honest .. no one in their right mind would want or wish a disability on anyone; or desire a child to be born with a disability. No one wants a limb cut off.
A year ago I had my left foot amputated, due to the long-term issues with my twisted left foot. This is the first time in my life I've felt disabled. I'm a pro with a wheelchair and crutches ... I'm just now getting around my prosthetic, and I think with a lot of hard work I'll be better off than I was.
This PC crap of calling someone "special" or "differently-abled" ... I agree it's BS. I think it's people struggling with their own internal horror at your situation and their guilt that they don't have it .. And let's all be honest .. it sucks a big one. It's not like it's a life goal to be limited physically. It's not like people pray that their newborns are blind, missing limbs or paralyzed. Everyone wants health and full function.
I look at it ... it's my situation, instead of lying on the floor weeping and have a pity party .. you have to get up and do the best with what you have. I've done a heck of a lot in my life living with paralysis .. I plan on dealing with the new challenge and doing as much as I can now with the prosthetic.
And in the end .. that's what we all have to do. Life is not fair. Some people get more, some people get a lot less. But .. we ALL have control over our attitude.
I've enjoyed watching your channel, Jo. I'm still learning about the being an amputee thing.
Ironically enough, in Italy - a country where there's been a huge effort in portraying people with disability in the most politically correct way possible, where tv hosts USE the term differently abled - the general public, the PEOPLE roll teir eyes everytime because here is significantly worse to try and sugar coat conditions which cause a very real disadvantage in society, and decide to call people "disabled" or "people with disability" to avoid denying the limitation one can have due to that condirtion, which is the definition of disability itself, at least in the most validated sources produced here.
Thankyou! I have a physical disability too. Your opinion is the same as mine. I'm currently needing to respond soon to a new friend (old friend of my aunt's) who emailed "I sincerely believe Disability is just a word...." I have several choice responses to that but don't want to explode at her. She is very much a caring person. Plus she had a son who died in kindergarten of a rare disease.
The term differently abled makes me cringe. 'Disabillity' is just a fact, nothing bad about it. 'Handicapped' makes me feel less worthy as a person, because of the meaning. Able bodied people are afraid of speaking the truth i guess, probably because it makes them uncomfortable. Luckily most people are just not educated.
I was listening to a podcast not too long ago about a social psychologist explaining his reasoning on how to “solve all problems” in the world. As a psych major, it really intrigued me. He said that the one “fix all” solution is education. Teaching, researching, listening to others, and just having knowledge can really help close gaps. I really resonated with it especially with everything going on. I love these kinds of vids because it does just that! One day, we can only hope, everyone can get a good education.
You have a great outlook about yourself. I am not an amputee, but I do have a disability and chronic illnesses. I do not generally call myself disabled even though I am. I try to be very open to everyone about my issues and don't think I am treated differently. For the most part, my issues are not visible. I don't mind being called disabled. I definitely don't like the term differently abled. Like you, I like calling a spade a spade.
for myself as someone who is 3 years into crps and a disability... I think I hesitate to refer to myself as disabled is because I feel like that is such a specific respected situation...
I think in some ways I don't want to cheapen the definition for those who have it worse than me... even tho yes, according to the definition, I absolutely fall under those terms. I feel like people could say "well you don't look disabled" or "well people have it worse than you", so K hesitate using that term for myself. I think you're right: we just have to own it.. and if those around us think we are using it improperly, then 🤷♀️
Also, the fact that a blind person should "SEE" what good in life you still have made me wheeze laughing because I'm a bad person.
It's funny to watch people try to wriggle around the word 'stroke'. My husband will occasionally ask "Stroke moment?" when he thinks I'm struggling. People act like he's called me something terrible.
Lol I think that’s adorable!.. I had a stroke too and do have those moments lol. God bless!
@@kysssims8764 Bless you, too. :)
I have CRPS in my left knee which is technically a disability. I really don’t like referring to myself as disabled though, not because I don’t like the term or anything, but more because I often feel like it’s not serious enough to qualify as a disability, like my whole body is still perfectly functional I just have a lot of pain. When I’m having bad episodes (like when I ended up in A&E being told that they couldn’t give me anything else for pain because I was already on everything, nothing could touch my leg because it felt like it was burning every time something did, it was multicoloured and had seized up or when I passed out from being on too much pain medication) I felt like maybe it does apply to me, maybe it is severe enough that I am disabled, but when my pain is more manageable like not (I’m not even on crutches at the moment!) I feel like referring to myself as disabled kind of trivialises other people’s struggles who have it worse than me.
Coming from someone with mental- llness type disabilities, I think the term "disabled" can be seen as a bit black-and-white. Like you're either disabled, or your not. It doesn't cater for those fluctuations that happen in many conditions, yet my condition can be disabling. It is complicated.
I think you bring up a really good point - that's so true, we do look at it in a very THIS or THAT, black or white context...and its much more complicated than that!
@@FootlessJo Exactly. We're also starting to swing towards the ablest culture too now. It is going to be tricky for me once I'm out working (final year of uni before I can teach high school students in Australia). It is vital that teachers focus on student's strengths so that they can grow and learn. But at the same time, I question deeply whether it is ethical to encourage people into professions that they don't have the inherent capabilities for. For example, I wouldn't pass a psychometric exam due to my mental illness, which is needed to be a police officer or serve in the Army. I know people who can't be flight attendants because they're a little bit too short to qualify (that's not even a disability). Should we nudge people into careers that could be interesting and suit them more, or do we watch someone fail at something that they will never achieve (you cannot fly a plane if you're blind)? At the same time, there are many professions where reasonable adjustments can be made, and people should be included in them if they are the 'right person for the job,' not just someone to help the statistics to make a company look good (tokenism). This is getting deep.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this subject.
As an able bodied person, I try not to use the term "differently abled" because it sounds mildly belittling, with a dose of sugar coating. It just feels wrong in my mouth, like mayonnaise that's gone off.
Nowadays the politically correct word in Sweden is in translation "function altered" not "function hindered", in other words abilitity altered. We have a special radio show some periods of the year called "Funkisradio" and they wish us to use the word "funkis" for people with disabilities.
Oh I love that! I think that translation makes a lot of sense - and I love the name of that radio show!!
Jo and Molly need to collab! They're my 2 favorite RUclipsrs so that autos be the best video ever!
Differently abled is utter tosh... I'm disabled. I have something that disables my ability to do many things. A lot of things. In fact being able to do things is a luxury I don't get every day.
When I was diagnosed with ms, I was peeved when I found out I was "automatically" classed as disabled with this diagnosis. Yeah it's true and I've been disabled for a long time before. But ugh it felt soo horrible being told outright "this makes you disabled no matter what". - it leaves many people with ms feeling like frauds because their ms is not hugely impactful in their life.
To me differently abled feels weird cause it can apply to basically everybody. Some people can run a marathon and others can climb a mountain and others can learn a new language every few years. We all have different abilities already, so for that to be attached to disability, which to me has specific life experiences and discrimination and culture built around it, feels like the person is completely erasing my identity as a disabled person.
So personally I have learning disabilities called dyslexia. Dyslexic is a genetic condition where part my 6th chromosome is missing and this means there less connection between the two side of my brain. Having been called differently able because I learning differently "apparently". There is some true that statement because I learning differently I have been able to help people understand something they are having hard time with something. But here thing I still have use my hands to know which letter is a "d" or "b". I have use speech to text to spell most words. When writing something I still leave words out sentence that thought I put there. It still take me longer to read things. There are things still can't do that I will forever struggle with. So I will always be dyslexic. I will always have disability.
Handicap or Cripple are THE worst by far! You got it one! These sayings are normally used by people who are uncomfortable about dealing or describing people with disabilities. So they try to be PC by using terms like Differently abled, limb difference etc. We are individuals that have a disability/disabilities or adaption but it’s not all of us, it is just a part of our lives. I like to call myself adaptive and I don’t really mind the word disabled but I wish there was a more positive word hence why I say adaptive 🤗🥰
I know I'm late here, but still wanted to drop that I experienced the words "differently abled" as insult only. It was somewhere between 2005-2009, when the political correctness became a topic in my country or when the topic got popular in my area. People were straight up laughing at it, not because they wanted to laugh at disabled people, at people of colour, of different religion, ethnicity and what not. It was just, that the political correctness was over the top, making issues from things which weren't issues. We do have words to insult people who are different, sure, but they wanted us to stop using word for black person (neutral meaning, nothing insulting), to say instead African-American, the word disabled to say differently abled (what's wrong with disabled? There are words which really insult people), they literally decided to not only make insulting words uncool (what I can only support, insulting others isn't cool!), but also normal, regular words, making people laugh at the whole concept of political correctness and causing people staying distant from anyone who's different to not insult them by accident, i.e. fearing that the word disabled may be perceived by disabled people as insult. We don't have many people of colour, at that time about 99% of the country was white & mostly also native, now it changes a bit. The disabled people were rarely to see in public, they have own schools for kids with special needs, although they tried later to make disabled people more visible by putting them in regular schools and starting acommodating. The only context when I heard "differently abled", was in class, when someone was acting up during the lesson and either classmates were calling him that to not curse in the presence of a teacher and not get in troubles, or... teachers themself, telling us to ignore Y or Z, because they cannot help it and are differently abled - it may sound nice, but the tone left no doubts how it's meant. So yeah. As I graduated, I never heard people using these words again, so the only association with them isn't nice and would I hear someone saying it now, I would probably think it's meant as hidden insult. 🙈
I really see nothing wrong with the word disabled, the person isn't fully anled, for me that term states facts only, they might be harsh, but making up words to hide the real meaning feels more like either being very sensitive or causing the others think that disability is no big deal and hence the accomodations (i.e. elevators in buildings with stairs only, ramps, buttons to open the door, not only knobs etc.) aren't needed and this can be a bit dangerous. Of course, when disabled person tells me I should use another words than disabled, I can do it, I don't wanna upset people. 🙈
I identify as temporarily disabled as I have a severe hip labrum tear that requires the use of mobility aids and I do have an upcoming surgery that should resolve the issue (hence the temporary) and my father is "legally" disabled which people often see as being more legit than if the government doesnt recognize it. Differently able when I first heard of it made me think of super heros as in people who have additional abilities to a "normal" human not less.
Yes!! Not a fan of “differently abled”! I think it’s because people are trying to not discriminate against anyone or hurt others feelings (just like this whole racism thing), but they really just don’t understand. I am disabled & not ashamed of it at all! 😊
I told someone not to say differently abled and they got really abusive. I had to report them in the end.
From what I’ve seen, Wokeness seems to be a response to the cruelty of the past, but one that swings WAY in the other direction. It switches “F*****” to “Oh your so brave!” And manages to miss the point entirely. People are people, and a lot of people are different. And color-blindness won’t fix wealth inequality and calling a person in a wheel chair “differently abled” doesn’t put ramps on buildings. And acknowledging that we are all equal doesn’t mean we’re all the same. And being scared to think about a person’s skin color or look at a person’s prosthetic doesn’t make it go away. It fills your whole mind with that part of them.
I’m far from perfect at this, partly because I’m bad at people generally. But I just try to keep in mind that everyone’s traits (race, sexuality, disability) would probably be better off treated as normal instead of ridiculed or danced around.
I said this on Molly’s video and I’ll say it again. As someone with invisible disability, I HATE DIFFERENTLY ABLED. It sounds very condescending. Also, with invisible illness it takes a lot sometimes to say “ heck yeah I’m disabled!” It’s hard to believe your own feelings when others can’t see it. No, I’m not “differently abled” i AM disabled. Get over yourself
In the UK no one has used handicapped for decades.
I agree that disabled should not be regarded as inherently bad. I also struggle with using certain terminology myself to describe my own disability. I definitely understand the impulse to not want to offend those that are different, but much like with mental illness, having these conversations to help bring awareness will help move the conversation at large in the right direction.
On a side note, I might suggest that you try to phase 'call a spade a spade' out of your vocabulary as it can for many black people be seen as offensive as spade has, unfortunately, become synonymous with black people in a derogatory manner. Simply saying that you're calling it as it is would get the same message across and not risk offending anyone.
I'm about as progressive as it gets and I still refer to myself as "disabled." The "woke" terminology seems like self-congratulatory virtue signaling to me.
In my language there is no word for "disabled" so the word is "handicapt," wit h includes, physical and mentaly.
Now I do understand your stance on this "differently-abled" from your point of vieuw it does not recognize the struggle to do things, but I think another way of seeing it would be like you do need to do things diffently to come to the same result as someone with all his "rings and bells".
I never as questions to begin with, and secondly if I feel help might be usefull I ask first and yes "no" is fine too, but I was glad to let them know I was and still are there if they need it. Its not ment in a patronizing way, I would do the same for an elderly or child or anybody else in a "situation" just like I expect it if I fall that someone offers me a hand to stand up again.
Help does not mean you get it because you are disabled but because you might need it.
But its something to consider as how we nominate conditions and how we handle them.
Oh Jo, you make me laugh and I know you weren't even trying. "I know I'm missing a part of my leg. There's no reason to tiptoe around it." You are amazing
Haha I totally was NOT trying! 😆 The amount of times I say stuff like that is hilarious to me....I'm totally unaware sometimes! Lol! Thanks for your comment 😊
I think that as with most expressions it’s generally more important that words are used without malice than the exact grammar used. Also different phrases are acceptable in different places such as handicapped and coloured people are often used in the US but disabled and black seem more common in the UK. This is also changing quite noticeably at the moment as people of colour is starting to be heard more frequently in the UK these days. There will never be a time when everyone universally agrees what is acceptable language as it’s a living thing that constantly evolves.
I prefer identity first language because person first always sounds, to me, like I can take my disability off as if it's an attachment. I always try to use vision impaired too, instead of visually impaired. As far as I'm aware, I haven't become transparent in any way. :)
I'm on long-term disability with Social Security. I had a hard time accepting the term disabled but it does fit my situation as I'm not able to work at this time. My disability isn't obvious to people. I've always thought the term "differently abled" was odd and it certainly doesn't apply to me.
I'm autistic. I've seen people say that autism is not a disability or simply calling autistic people differently-abled. I'm disabled, I'm autistic. My autism is absolutely disabling and that's ok. Disability is not an awful thing and it is not a scary thing, it's simply what I am since I don't function as many other people do. There is also a discussion of whether you should say 'I have autism' or "I am autistic'. Autism is a part of me, it is my brain structure, so I don't have it. I've seen parents or 'professionals' like doctors and therapists insisting on 'has autism'. These people often talk over autistic people and ignore what we want to be called. My autism is not a bad thing or an insult, so I will call myself disabled and autistic.
I have SM and people starting to act strange when I tell them that I have this thing. They don’t even try to ask what the hell is SM. But this is normal thing. When you talking with someone disabled and you are interested in this disability you just try to not ask about it to not hurt the feelings of the disabled person
I'm older then most of those posting or watching this. As a child Handicap was the common choice prior to disabled. The disability community as a whole rejected Handicapped due to it's perceived connection with beggars holding out their caps for money. I've never seen or heard anything to confirm (or disprove) this origin. In the long run though.....
I prefer handicapped because I see it more like golf, where it just takes most of us (depending on our disability) extra work to reach the same goal so a "handicap" of X points is supposed to make the game more balanced. But, some of us really are disabled and when you get down to it my own issues are significant enough I can't really compete at all against "normal" people in the long run at any job even if my job specific performance outstrips theirs.
In the end though, any term outside these 2 that isn't specific to our/your disability is a insult. That includes "differently-abled". It's as if some "normal" person went out of their way to try and find a inclusive term when all they really needed to do was just say hello and welcome.
I’ve never heard the term differently abled. I’m glad I got to learn and understand what this term means
Thanks so much for watching, Mallory!
The biggest question this video have brought to my attention is WHY HAS SOMEONE DISLIKED IT!!!
Differently Abled is sooo cringey! I agree with you and Molly.
Please, if you say Differently Abled, stop!! Immediately cease and desist with that “woke” garbage.
Does not understanding every woke term count as a disability? Because if so, I very much have that. 😉
Im an amputee now for about 6 weeks, i lost my lower leg after 6 years of fighting, but I'm definetly more comfortable with being called disabled instead of 'differently abled'. it just doesn't feel like right word that descirbes me. I'm disabled, and thats a part of me, thats how you can describe me, no need to sugarcoat the reality :D
In Faroese - my native language - I have heard phrases used by healthcare people like seeing and not seeing, hearing and not hearing persons.
I think it's an attempt at a technical and politically correct language without using negative words like blind and deaf.
Not sure how that system would work with amputees, though.
Limbed and not limbed? No, that wouldn't work.
Thought I'd mention, because it seems to follow from the "differently abled" language
I’ve heard the term “limb deficiency” before, but I think that’s for congenital amputees? 🤷🏼♀️
Jógvan Jákupsson limb difference is the variation for amputees
"Less-limbed"
Are the phrases seeing/not seeing hearing/not hearing familiar in English language?
I have a disability as well. I can so relate to this video. At one point in my life (awhile back) I thought I was more comfertable with the term differently abled. Looking back I see that I was not really comertable at all but it seemed to make other people more confortable so I went with it. I don't anymore. You are right call a spade a spade. That being said not a fan of the word cripple.
I have my own journey as a lbka. I also have personal experience as I have two brothers that are disabled. They don't see themselves as different in anyway. So as I continue on my journey I'll remember that I'm not different. I'm just me.
I think that handicap is a term if you let your disability limit you. Its more of a state of mind.
As a person without a disability, I dont quite get the handicapped vs disabled thing... maybe its cause english isnt my first language, but when I hear disabled, I think 'not functional at all'. If I disable a lock, my door wont close. If I disable an alarm, it wont tell me theres a fire. It just wont work. But if a person is disabled, theyre still a person that can function in society to at least some extent. They might have some issues with some (or even many) things, but theyre still a normal human. So Ive always thought handicapped seems more fitting... I dont see a handicap as limiting someone to not being able to get as far, but rather that theyll have to work harder to get there. For instance, the cycling vid. Getting on and off was a bit slower, but aside from that, no problems. A handicap in terms of speed. But still very much *able* to do it...
I hope this kinda makes sense? And yes, obviously her choice of word is more important, Im more curious about why handicapped seems to be frowned upon a bit more in general.
(I totally concur on differently abled though, that one just sounds like someone is taking the piss...)
If you put glitter on a spare leg, that could be the "differently abled" limb!?
If she puts a nametag on her spare leg could it be "differently labeled?"
I have a disability and what I really hate is when people tell me I don't look like it. Not all disabilities can be seen.
I hear you....before it was clear that I was disabled by having amputation, people would often tell me that. And its not reassuring - because its like, great, I look fine but am NOT and its hard to convince people sometimes. Invisible disabilities and illnesses and pain are some of the hardest to deal with.
I'm a RBKA and I am not disabled. I am not handicapped. I'm inconvenienced. That's all.
Yeah ive had chronic migraines since childhood and it is not a difference of ability. What am i able to do thats different? Feel terrible pain in my head? Beg to go home from work early because im nauseous and dizzy? It's just a disability. It does not convert into something useful or cool. It just sucks.
I want people to see me for who I am, not what I am.
I can not stop looking at the man on the pillow.
'Differently abled' is just plain condescending.
i agree a 100% on what your saying
Generally speaking I don’t like to use the term disabled as a way to label myself. I prefer not to put a label on myself and what I can and cannot do. Yes I have a disability, but I don’t view myself as disabled. I’m much more likely to say I am not able bodied than I am disabled, but if I had to label myself for the sake of someone else, I’d definitely call myself disabled long before I’d ever call myself handicapped or differently abled
I’m on the Autism Spectrum and I used to use both disabled and differently able to describe myself probably because of a combination of not realizing that it could mean I’m uncomfortable with my disability and also probably trying to make the person I’m talking with more comfortable.
To my mind, "Differently Abled" is a nonsense term (we all have different abilities, whether were Disabled or non-disabled) made up so that non-disabled people can feel comfortable by avoiding saying Disabled. I AM Disabled. I am not a "person with a disability". I work to the Social Model of Disability. Society disables me by failing to include me. My impairments are my own business. They are not part of the discussion. I also despise "Handicapped", which bizarrely still seems acceptable in the US - which I was led to believe was the birthplace of the Disability Rights Movement. 🤦😤
In short (I'm 4' 11", so I know all about shortness!), "DA" is a perfect example of the phrase: "You can't polish a 💩 - only roll it in glitter."
Here in Sweden we have four words as ba label for us with disabilities. And yes i will translate them as good as i can to english. One is handickapped. Yes we have that word to and not a fan due to where it comes from.
Then we have our verion of disabled bwish is functionally impaired (funktionsnedsatt) wish i am okay with to.
Functionally variated though i have mixed feelins about as it is our version of differently abled.
And last a wqord i am not a fan of. Functionally hindered. We are not the hindrence. A stair without an elevator or ramp is a functionally hindrence..
THIS!!! literally this!!!!
Ughhh I hate being called that!
Labels are for parcels/packages.
I keep hearing “Baloney amputee.”
😆😆😆
This is the first time I’ve ever heard the term differently abled. It wouldn’t bother me. I’m a little more then twice your age and I guess people’s words don’t bother me when they are well intentioned. I had a bk amputation in 2015. I also have disabilities people can’t see. I have no vestibular system so I walk like I’m drunk. Like you I also suffer from chronic pain. People make way worse comments about those conditions IMHO. But I understand where you are coming and I think it’s up to the individual how you feel about it and we probably probably really don’t need some woke person coming up with new descriptions of us....
Thankfully the words crippled or cripple aren't used very much anymore. Though I'm certain some people still use the terms.
I got a below the knee prostate leg and on my right leg I have no toes
I'm disabled, idk that I necessarily hate the word "differently abled". I don't believe anyone's called me that, but I feel like if they did I wouldn't care that much. I'd just think there trying to be respectful of the situation. But most ppl just say Disabled or chronically sick/ill, I don't think they've said anything else like handycap or differently abled to me.
No, disability is not bad. Yes, it’s a struggle to deal with, but it never truly stops a persons lifelong dreams or life itself. Even Beethoven, who is very well known today as a accomplished musician, was almost completely deaf. Though I can say from experience that it only becomes a true burden for someone before they understand and accept the disability. I personally, am deaf in my right ear. I use the term deaf instead of “hearing impaired” because that is the term I have heard from my doctors, teachers, parents, and other family members throughout my life.
Like you i am an amputee . Like you i face extra challenges to get though the day. I dont consider myself disabled or handicaped
I think that some of it comes from the ideologies within the deaf and autism groups. Possibly a twisting from the social method/theory about disability (because the world is designed for people who are neurotypical and non-disabled people). I've also seen the idea in the ADHD, among other places.
Personal don't like it. And while I don't fit the tax break definition. I have several chronic illnesses so I'm thinking that I belong more and more.
This is more "woke" than the people who think they are woke. Thank you! I found your channel about a week ago when I was looking for something to watch besides covid and BLM stuff.
This is a technological difficulty. Better, more advance cybernetics will remove any "disability" our somewhat simple prosthetics inflict on their users. What I'm saying is, support advances in prosthetics.
I just ask the person which term they prefer.
Glad your hubby stayed with you mine left when I was in the hospital and left me with nothibng now ireally need help
I think it stems from THE POLITICALLY CORRECT era.
I think you may be right 😉
I've got a wurst liver. 😶
In my experience, it’s ableds who are big into using tiptoe phrases.
Exactly - same here. I think it comes from a really good place, but isn't actually helpful. 😉
Always thought that people HAD/HAVE handicaps or disabilities but not that they WERE/ARE handicapped or disabled. Though that's not a perfect solution because you can only say that someone IS blind.
That depends hugely on the person. Some prefer person-first language ("person with a disability") and some prefer identity first language ("disabled person"). Some people consider their disability a huge part of who they are, some don't. Some subscribe to the medical model, some to the social model. I think from birth vs genetic but develops later vs acquired plays into it a huge amount too It's way more complex than it seems.
"Disabled" or simply "Gimpy" works for me.
I hate hate hate that second word. Don't get me wrong...it's fine for someone to be ok with it. But I've had it used against me as an insult...and I just hate it. I also hate the word cripple.
@@beckiehubley5798 I understand. I refer to myself as "gimpy", a deep south thing I guess? HOW it's said can easily change things, same with "disabled". Phrasing and tone of voice are everything!
Speedy
AKA: Hero Hog, Dr. Speed and "That fat, old, balding, grey-bearded, gimpy guy"
USN-DAV, NRA Life Member