Do not use the term “leper” when describing someone with leprosy, as it carries negative connotations and instead of “dwarf,” use “person with dwarfism” where appropriate, it added.According to Arman Ali, Executive Director of NCPEDP, “The media toolkit on reporting disability is a step toward fostering inclusivity, sensitivity, and accuracy in how disability is portrayed. This toolkit is not just a guide but a call to action for shaping narratives that empower, inform, and unite.””I hope this initiative will contribute to building a media landscape where persons with disabilities are portrayed not as victims or heroes but as individuals with equal rights, aspirations, and contributions to make,” he said.According to the handbook, “The language used when referring to people with disabilities has a significant impact, as it shapes perceptions. This language has evolved, and terms once common are no longer acceptable. It is crucial to be aware of and use respectful language when speaking to or about people with disabilities. Disability should not be sensationalised or dramatised. Referring to people with disabilities as “inspirational” may suggest that it is extraordinary for them to lead successful, fulfilling lives.””Describing people with disabilities as “brave” or as having “overcome” their disability can be patronising and should be avoided,” it said and added that terms such as ‘survivor’ (e.g., brain injury survivor) or ‘battle’ (e.g., to battle cancer) are often problematic, as not everyone identifies with such terms.It suggested that journalists should avoid portraying people with disabilities as inherently vulnerable. “Vulnerability often arises from external circumstances and can affect anyone. While some people with disabilities may be more susceptible to certain crimes, such as gender-based violence, vulnerability varies depending on the individual’s situation. When barriers are removed, people with disabilities are not inherently vulnerable,” it said.”Avoid using a person’s disability in your reporting unless it is relevant. However, disability should not be ignored. Disability-related issues should be discussed openly and respectfully, emphasising inclusion,” it further said.The term “victim” should not be used, as it implies harm or helplessness. Citing an example, it said not to use “victim of cerebral palsy” and to avoid phrases like “the man inside the paralysed body” or “she transcended her disability.” “These phrases are ableist and offensive, as they imply the person’s body or mind is separate from their identity. While reporting on disability, remember to emphasise abilities, not limitations,” it further said. “Mainstream media coverage frequently focuses on either portraying individuals with disabilities as heroic simply for living with their condition or as victims of an unjust system. These portrayals are often misleading and contribute to discrimination and prejudice,” it further added.
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