In diabetes, we are changing the world…of language. We are becoming aware of the words we use and messages we send, because we know they make a difference. #languagematters
Sometimes we call it changing the conversation and other times we call it a language movement.
We are leading by example.
We are not being politically correct. This is not a fad. We are not the word police. We don’t judge people who use negative or judgmental words; we simply share why they don’t help (and may even harm), and suggest a different way of looking at things. This is not a substitute for understanding the message. In other words it’s not just about the words. It’s about the way we think about diabetes and the people who live with it.
The goal of this work is to remove shame from diabetes and create an environment where people with diabetes are accepted, included, respected, supported, and engaged.
We don’t give people who call themselves diabetic a hard time. We do hope they will read/listen to the work, ask questions, and maybe even come on board one day.
This is a work in progress. Words will be replaced over time, even the words we are suggesting right now. We understand that change takes time.
We are encouraged by and grateful to all those who are supporting this movement, participating in it, and taking action. Thank you for spreading the word about messages!
*image from YWCA Practice Framework Series