People First Language

The DSG promotes dignity and respect for all people including individuals with Down syndrome.  The greatest way you can promote these values is to use People First Language. 

Words can create barriers and reinforce stereotypes. Therefore, the DSG strongly believes in the importance of ensuring that People First language is used when talking or writing about individuals with Down syndrome.  Placing the person before the disability emphasizes the person first and the disability second. A baby born with Down syndrome is not a "Down's child" or a "baby with Downs".  It is preferred that you say, “he/she is a baby with Down syndrome”.  A person with Down syndrome is not a "Downs".  When referring to peers, the correct term is "typical" peers as opposed to "normal."   

It is also important to use correct terminology.  A person does not "suffer" from Down syndrome, nor are they "afflicted".  It is not a disease.  Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition which results in an extra copy of the 21st chromosome.  It was discovered by Dr. John Langdon Down.  However, since Dr. Down did not have this syndrome himself, the possessive form is not used. In addition, the "s" in syndrome is not capitalized.