In the month of May, 2025, we conducted an awareness campaign titled ‘Mind Your Language.’ It intended to educate people about everyday language that is rooted in ableism and phrases that have historically been used against persons with disabilities and re-stigmatise disability in society.
On social media, where the r-slur has had a resurgence in popularity, it’s especially important to remind people of why such words and phrases aren’t casual terms to throw around, but cause real life harm to the most marginalised in the community.
‘Mind Your Language’ addressed a wide range of disabilities – blindness, deafness, locomotor, to psychosocial disabilities, to mental health conditions, as they are often related and interact with each other and shows how pervasive ableism is. We also provided alternatives, to encourage people to shift to more inclusive language without feeling like they are being spoken down to.
This campaign opened the floor for persons with disabilities, as well as allies and other organisations to share stories and experiences with ableism and show support for more inclusive language.
The campaign created space for persons with disabilities, allies, and organisations to share their experiences of ableism, reflect on the power of language, and collectively advocate for more inclusive and respectful communication.