Strengthen Your Inner Landscape: Disability Etiquette

Also posted in: Thrive Guide

Etiquette basics to help you build a fully inclusive environment.

by Kadee Mardula
OAS Staff

Our vision at Oregon Adaptive Sports is to have a fully inclusive environment where every human, in support of differences, is celebrated for who they are and what they bring to outdoor recreation. Feeling comfortable interacting with people who have different disabilities helps to create a welcoming environment for all. This is a continually evolving conversation and I welcome you to join us on the learning journey of inclusion.

To start on this journey, consider the following things when interacting with individuals with disabilities, which applies to interacting with all individuals whether they have a disability or not:

Always ask before you help
People desire to be independent and treated with respect
Be respectful about physical contact
People depend on their arms for balance, consider equipment part of their personal space
Think before you speak
Speak directly to the person
Don’t make assumptions
People are the best judge of what they can or cannot do
An accommodation is not a complaint

Source: https://odr.dc.gov/page/disability-sensitivity-and-awareness

Disability Sensitivity Video | From DC Office of Disability Resources

Video Description: Accompany Bob through his work environment while learning about respectful and sensitive ways to interact with individuals who experience disability.

More Resources

United Spinal Association – Disability Etiquette Publiation offers tips on interacting with people who experience disability: https://unitedspinal.org/disability-etiquette/
People First Language by Kathie Snow (https://www.disabilityisnatural.com/people-first-language.html) or http://tinymiracleslearning.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/People_first_Language.7691708.pdf

Disclaimer: The virtual programming content, information and videos offered are made available for informational purposes, please USE THIS INFORMATION AT YOUR OWN RISK. Oregon Adaptive Sports is not liable for injury or actions resulting from virtual information. You are responsible for your own safety and we care about you.