October 2002

Disability Etiquette

People with disabilities come from all socioeconomic, ethnic and racial groups. They read, speak, and communicate through many languages and methods. Regardless of their disability, generally, they prefer to be viewed as people first, with their disability considered second.

• When culturally appropriate, make eye contact and direct your communication to the individual with a disability. If they are not alone, do not direct your comments to their companion.
• Use a normal speaking tone and style. If someone needs you to speak in a louder voice, they will ask you to do so.
• Do not focus on the disability, but on the individual and the issue at hand. If you are uncertain about what to do, ask. Most people would rather answer a question about protocol than be in an uncomfortable situation.
• Assistive devices (canes, wheelchairs, crutches, communication boards, etc.) should always be respected as personal property. Unless given specific and explicit permission, do not move, play with, or use them.
• When having an extended conversation (more than a minute or two) with someone in a wheelchair or of short stature, try to kneel or find a chair. This way they are not looking up at you and eye contact is much easier for both parties.
• Remember that people with disabilities, like all people, are most knowledgeable about themselves. They know what they like, what they don't like, and what they can and cannot do.
• Do not make assumptions about people with disabilities. They are, most likely, a lot like you. They have families, friends, feelings, frustrations and fun.
• If and when you make a mistake with an etiquette issue, apologize, correct the problem, learn from the mistake and move on.

Catherine Campisi
Chair, Director, Department of Rehabilitation

Clothilde Hewett,
Director, Department of General Services

Steve Castellanos
State Architect

Dennis Hayashi
Director, Department of Fair Employment and Housing

Walter Vaughn
Executive Officer, State Personnel Board