D069 Advocating for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Language matters. The language to describe someone with intellectual disability and developmental disabilities has dramatically changed. Now it includes the use of neurodivergent. In the past, we used other language. As the language has changed, so must the language of the Church. This issue was last addressed in 2012, when the language for those with certain developmental disabilities was different. Even today, we no longer use words like “insane asylum” or “retarded”. The Church should update it language also.
Furthermore, the Church needs to advocate for legislation that respects the rights of all with developmental disabilities.
Explanation
Language matters. The language to describe someone with intellectual disability and developmental disabilities has dramatically changed. Now it includes the use of neurodivergent. In the past, we used other language. As the language has changed, so must the language of the Church. This issue was last addressed in 2012, when the language for those with certain developmental disabilities was different. Even today, we no longer use words like “insane asylum” or “retarded”. The Church should update it language also.
Furthermore, the Church needs to advocate for legislation that respects the rights of all with developmental disabilities.