Nebraskans with disabilities offer the following advice to support staff and service providers:
Don’t be scared of me.
Remember this is my home, not yours.
Give me space when I ask for it.
I have the right to say “No”.
Teach me, don’t do it for me.
Explain things in a way I can understand.
It’s my decision, not yours.
Listen to me and respect me.
Understand that every person has bad days.
I need sick leave and vacations just like you do.
I am an adult, treat me like one.
Call me by my name, not nicknames you think are cute.
I am the expert about me.
Don’t touch my wheelchair, service animals or other assistive tools without my permission.
Talk with me, not at me.
I am a person, not a bed, a program, a number or a diagnosis.
Created by People First of Nebraska, Inc. Advocacy for and by people with disabilities.