Words Matter

By | January 22, 2022

Do you ever worry that you are using the wrong term to describe someone? We know that language matters, but do we understand the history behind the labels we use? Join us for a conversation about language, identity and labels. Everyone is welcome!

This month’s Equity Committee discussion is a collaboration with the Catonsville Middle School Equity Committee, and will be facilitated by Dr. Monica Simonsen (she/her). Dr. Simonsen is a mom of two Hillcrest alum, a special educator (at Catonsville High School) and a community activist. During her 25+ year career in special education, workforce development and higher education, she has witnessed the evolution of terminology and vocabulary – and intent – as it pertains to people with disabilities. As a biracial mother of two children of different races, she thinks deeply about how labels apply to her own family. Dr. Simonsen is currently the Education Program Director at the University of Maryland Global Campus. 

The Identity-First vs. People-First Language discussion will be held Tuesday, February 1, at 7:30 pm.