Even the most well-intentioned and informed people unintentionally disrespect non-speakers from time to time. Here are some ways this can happen.

• Assuming we need help without asking
• Sharing embarrassing things about our disability online without permission
• Speaking for our population without any non-speaker’s opinions included
• Assuming we don’t understand you because we don’t speak
• Talking about us instead of to us
• Using baby talk
• Simplifying sentences and grammar when talking to us
• Deciding preferences for us
• Only working on functional skills and not academics too
• Taking AAC away when it’s not used a certain way
• Doing things for us in a rush instead of giving wait time
• People using our disability as an excuse for things
• Using therapies to have time to yourself when the service is not what we want
• Over scheduling our day
• Assuming how we feel without asking
• Lack of inclusion in our goal or adulthood planning

In the age of social media, many non-speakers have their worst moments shared online. Not all non-speakers have the ability to give permission. It is important to remember that just because someone can’t speak, doesn’t mean they don’t have feelings and opinions. Please include us in our own lives.