This article discusses the importance of using inclusive language to describe people with disability. All people should be described with an emphasis on their strengths and talents, rather than their weaknesses or 'problems'. Medical descriptors should be avoided, as the majority of disabling barriers are attitudinal and environmental. The article explains that language and labelling is crucial to the empowerment of people with disability, who should be valued as 'people first'. A list of 'person first' alternatives to a range of commonly used demeaning terms is provided.