Breaking Barriers: Revolutionizing Inclusive Language for a Truly Accessible Campus

Inclusive language is not just about being politically correct; it's about dignity, belonging, and justice for all students. Especially for those with disabilities, the words we use can either open doors or reinforce barriers. As we have worked alongside students and colleagues in higher education, we have seen firsthand how something as simple as a word choice can make someone feel seen or excluded. As researchers like Bogart, Dunn, Grigal and colleagues have found, inclusive language is not just symbolic. It reshapes campus culture. It is a daily living practice that shows students, regardless of their background, identity, or ability, that they matter.
Yet, when we talk about equity in higher education, disability often lags behind race, gender, or sexuality in visibility. That's not just a missed opportunity; it's a systemic gap. And as Cologon reminds us, language is a critical tool in dismantling ableism and advocating for intersectional justice. Inclusive language helps students with disabilities feel like they belong. It is not about softening the truth or avoiding discomfort; it is about recognizing every student's humanity.