Jessica PingWord of the Week – “Handicapable”
In this blog post, I will do a close examination of the word “handicapable” and explain why you should avoid using this word in your everyday language.
*Disclosure: There are affiliate links in the following article, meaning that, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using the links, I will receive a small commission.
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Introduction To The Ableist Language Series:
Ableist language perpetuates the inferiority of people with disabilities. At its core, it is oppressive, derogatory, and hurtful, no matter the intention behind its usage.
I guarantee that you use ableist language every single day without even realizing it. It rolls off the tongue naturally because it’s hardly ever questioned.
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Here on The Rolling Explorer, I am going to start questioning it.
As an advocate for disability rights, I was appalled when I realized how common ableist language was in my own vocabulary. Of course, like many of you, I was uneducated and unaware of the implications behind my word choice. Our systemically ableist society has allowed these words and phrases to grow in popularity for too long. It’s time for a change.
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Every other week, I will be sharing a blog post that highlights one of the words from the downloadable glossary above. These posts will provide definitions, explanations, as well as alternative words and phrases to use in place of the one being examined.
Today’s word is “handicapable.” Keep reading to learn why this word is inherently ableist and discover alternatives you can begin to use in its place.
Why Is “Handicapable” Ableist?
If you’re familiar with the Ableist Language Series, then you know I generally start these explanations with a definition. I find that evaluating the meaning of a term often helps explain just how problematic the word is.
Today, I am forced to take a slightly different approach.
There is no official definition for the word “handicapable.” But, as it is a mash-up of two other common words, one that has already been evaluated here on The Rolling Explorer, we can still interpret the word’s purpose fairly easily.
Generally speaking, “handicapable” is used to make non-disabled individuals feel more comfortable about disability. For most people who have never experienced disability, the idea of becoming disabled is terrifying. Many would even say that it’s worse than death. So, words like “handicapable” make the disabled lived condition more palatable.
Basically, “handicapable” is an identifier that attempts to view disability through an able-bodied lens. It says, “I’m disabled, but I am still capable of doing x activity,” or, more generally, “being normal.”
First of all, who is to say what is normal and what is not? We all have ailments; we all get injured in our lifetimes. But, if your injury heals or if your illness is cured, you suddenly have more power and are the “ideal” human in our society. You can be guaranteed that the world is built with your needs in mind and that all activities and opportunities will be available to you.
Disabled people* have to deal with a plethora of inaccessible obstacles each and every day. Sometimes, the disabled person comes out on top, other times, they are simply unable to proceed onwards. Our society glorifies the successful ones while simultaneously ignoring the access barriers that are in their way. Books are written, movies are filmed, and inspiration is taken from the “accomplishments” of disabled people without considering the harm this creates.
Worst of all, hierarchies are formed. Words like “handicapable” are used to determine the weak from the weakest.
This word may seem harmless. In fact, many would consider it to be a compliment or a declaration of strength. It is neither.
In short, here is why you shouldn’t use “handicapable” to identify a disabled person**
- It’s not a compliment
- It does not change someone’s disability
- It attempts to alter someone’s experience in a way that in palatable for the non-disabled community
- It creates a hierarchy between those who are disabled and can perform certain tasks or do certain activities and those that cannot
- It is not accepted by the wider disability community
Alternative Words To Use Instead Of “Handicapable”
- Disabled
*If someone has a different identity preference, then use that instead. If you’re unsure, use disabled or simply ask the person what label they prefer.
**You may come across some disabled people that prefer to use the word “handicapable” to identify themselves. If this is the case, then please follow their wishes. That said, if you are relying on them solely to inform you about the disabled lived condition, ensure you are also following others in the community as well to ensure your education is as diverse and well-rounded as possible.
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