Getting started

[Holly M.]

I asked to open this forum on language--not for our traditional (and important) discussions about respectful people first language--but to get us started talking about or developing a common language that makes sense across disability, psychiatric, and aging services AND is respectful of the people who use those services.

How can we talk about self/person directed, person centered services in a way that is understandable to all? One of our board members suggested coming up with a new word or phrase to describe what we are talking about rather than using self or person directed or person centered. What are your thoughts?

[Liz W.]

Hi everyone:
I have often wondered why do we have to label people in the first place. I know I was born with a diasbility, but to be my friend or someone who cares about me, shouldn't you call me by my name, Liz. After we get to know each other, shouldn't I be the one to decide weather or not I want to let you know the label that the goverment or (whomever) puts on me-- I am a person..get to know me, not my label!!