Jakarta, Kartunet - Society is familiar with many terms referring to the same subject, ranging from 'penyandang cacat' (disabled person), 'penyandang disabilitas' (person with disability), and 'difabel' (differently abled). There are many reasons for using these terms, but what is clear is that everyone agrees on wanting to replace 'penyandang cacat,' which is considered dehumanizing.
However, upon closer examination, no matter which term is used, they all remain dichotomous. This means there is still a distinction between those with perfect physical abilities and those without. Between those with perfect intellectual abilities and those without. Between those with perfect mental conditions and those without. No matter how humanizing it is intended to be, the replacement term for 'penyandang cacat' still implies a concept of 'us' and 'them.' A distinction based on someone's shortcomings, not on what they are capable of doing.
Although it still presents a problem, the use of certain terms for identification can still be accepted for advocacy purposes. The use of 'difabel' or 'disabilitas' indicates that there are still unequal conditions and areas for environmental improvements. There are still unfulfilled rights that prevent them from being equal to the general public. The term 'difabel' was initially widely used by disability rights activists in the Yogyakarta and Java regions.
'Difabel' is a combination of two words: 'Differently able,' or 'Different ability.' The intent of this term is to show that 'difabel' individuals are not 'cacat' (defective) or lacking, but rather possess different abilities or do things in different ways. Thus, its connotation is more positive compared to 'cacat' or 'disabled.' Meanwhile, the term 'penyandang disabilitas' emerged leading up to the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
As an absorption from 'Person with Disability' (PWD), 'Penyandang Disabilitas' was adopted to replace 'penyandang cacat,' which was officially present in Law No. 19 of 2011. There is actually a conceptual difference between 'difabel' and 'penyandang disabilitas.' 'Difabel' refers to the subject themselves, who indeed possess different abilities compared to most other people.
In contrast, 'penyandang disabilitas,' whose original term is 'Person with Disability,' refers to the environment outside the subject that is not yet accommodating, thereby causing disability. When the surrounding environment becomes accommodating and the subject can participate in activities without hindrance, they become a complete person, without the 'disability' label.
It's up to you how you want to view a 'difabel' or 'person with disability' – from which perspective. All terms have a positive side if one chooses to view them positively. What's most important is not which term is used, but our attitude in supporting our friends with disabilities. That they are also complete human beings or persons, possessing various potentials, strengths, and weaknesses, and whether they want to be seen from their shortcomings or from what they can do?
Hopefully, this can be a shared reflection. (editorial)