NSU STYLE MANUAL 59 Here is a list of some words to avoid and a list of some words that may be comfortably used. Avoid • able-bodied • abnormal/normal • addict, alcoholic • autistic • blind as a bat, four eyes • crippled • differently abled • deaf and dumb, deaf mute, dummy • handicapped • retarded • confined to a wheelchair Use • person with autism • blind, partially sighted, vision-impaired • deaf, hearing-impaired • disabled, has a disability • experiencing a drug/alcohol problem • has a physical disability • speech-impaired • typically abled • uses a wheelchair Formatting Your Copy It is not just essential to use inclusive language; you must also follow ADA guidelines when formatting your copy for a publication or the web. This ensures your designs are accessible to those with disabilities, safeguards you against any legal ramifications stemming from noncompliance, and creates a better user experience overall. Additionally, this will expand your market and promote more belonging and inclusivity, which aligns with NSU’s Core Values. Here are four best practices and design tips to make your visual communications ADA-compliant. • Ensure sufficient color contrast for improved readability. • Incorporate approachable fonts. • Highlight key content with negative space. • Provide alt text for images, graphics, and tables on social media to make them accessible to assistive technology users. Many people with disabilities rely on assistive technology to access information online. When writing copy, it is important to keep such audiences in mind to ensure accessibility and belonging for all readers, regardless of their abilities.
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