Language Matters
June 11, 2020 2020-09-28 14:32Language Matters
Language matters
By using respectful, person-first language and talking openly about FASD, we affirm the value of individuals with FASD. FASD is a lifelong disability, but it does not define a person. There is more to a person than FASD, and simple changes in language can support this idea.
| Instead of saying | Use this person-first language |
|---|---|
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This language places the person first, instead of the disability. |
| FASD is caused by maternal alcohol use. | “FASD is caused by prenatal alcohol exposure or when a developing baby is exposed to alcohol.” This language shifts the blame from a woman to describing FASD as a disability related to substance exposure. This helps reduce stigma for birth parents and create opportunities for open dialogue. |
| FASD is 100% preventable. | FASD cannot be considered completely preventable. With full, comprehensive and accessible services and systems in place to support families, many alcohol- exposed pregnancies could be prevented. However, wherever there is alcohol, there will be FASD. Keeping in mind that over half of pregnancies are unplanned with many factors affecting prenatal alcohol use. Additionally, a sole focus on prevention can be stigmatizing for individuals with FASD. There are people around us who live with FASD, and we can shift our perspective to creating nurturing communities for all. The focused message of prevention can make some individuals and families with FASD feel as though they are unwanted. A community-centered message such as Piruqatigiit Resource Centre’s prevention tagline would be: “Tamatta - All of us in the Circle of Support can help to promote a healthy pregnancy. It is safest not to drink alcohol or use other substances during pregnancy. It’s never too late to reach out” |
For more information about FASD-Informed Language, see CanFASD’s resources:
