15 September 2002 Media Advisory

‘What Did You Say?” campaign launch

Banquet Hall, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

5.30pm, Monday, 16 September 2002

Disability Issues Minister Ruth Dyson will launch the New Zealand CCS national disability awareness campaign, ‘What Did you Say?’ in the Banquet Hall at 5.30pm on Monday, 16 September 2002.

The purpose of the campaign is to combat the use of discriminatory language against people with disabilities.

The campaign has three aspects:
- Six posters describing the activities of people with disabilities will act as a reminder of the constant and careless use of discriminatory and inaccurate language (eg victim, sufferer, handicapped, wheelchair bound).

- Postcards based on the posters will be sent out by New Zealand CCS, and by people with disabilities and their families, to organisations that continue to use discriminatory language, to remind them of its effects.

- A reference booklet will be widely distributed as a guide to the use of appropriate and inclusive language.

At the launch, seven feet-high versions of the posters will be hung around the walls. Most of the people who feature in the posters will be attending the launch and will be available to speak to the media.

ENDS

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