Use ‘disabled,’ not ‘handicapped’ With the recent controversy over the questionable litigation pertaining to the Americans With Disabilities Act and the closure of various commercial enterprises, the dialog used in the discussions is troubling. The term “handicapped” has been used time and time again. It is important when discussing the topic of accessibility to use the term “disabled” in lieu of “handicapped.” The word “handicapped” is not used the ADA law text nor in any related accessibility codes used in designing accessible buildings and sites. People with disabilities are not handicapped, they have disabilities that make it difficult if not impossible to access places so as to participate in activities where they can work, relax and socialize. With the passage of the ADA in 1990, access to activities and facilities that many of us take for granted are now available to the disabled. The disabled community has much to offer, but without access, they are unable to share their knowledge and talents. So when discussing accessibility issues, and we need to do more of it, the ADA stands for “Americans with Disabilities Act” — not “Handicapped Americans Act.” Scott R. Baker McKinleyville
Posted on: Fri, 14 Mar 2014 13:02:18 +0000
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