We respect each individual’s choice as to how they would prefer to describe themselves and/or be referred to by others.
While many may be more familiar with person-first language (i.e., person with autism) there is clear preference in the autistic community for the use of identity-first language (i.e., autistic person). Identity first language “reflects the belief that being autistic is a core part of a person’s identity. Similar examples of ‘identity first’ language can be found in the Blind and Deaf communities” (Autism Awareness Australia). Thus, this is the terminology used on these ACU webpages.
