The disability community is rapidly evolving to using identity-first language in place of person-first language. This is because it views disability as being a core component of identity, much like race and gender. Some members of the community, such as people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, prefer person-first language. In this column, the terms are used interchangeably.
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The disability community is rapidly evolving to using identity-first language in place of person-first language. This is because it views disability as being a core component of identity, much like race and gender. Some members of the community, such as people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, prefer person-first language. In this column, the terms are used interchangeably.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Persons With Disabilities. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/persons-with-disabilities
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