"Before You Say That," A Practical Dictionary of Disability-Inclusive Language by Owolabi Misturah

Before You Say That is a practical, plain-spoken guide to disability-inclusive language, built for people and organisations that want to communicate with clarity and care. It breaks down over 180 commonly used words, phrases, and expressions, unpacking what people usually mean, why those choices matter, and how they can unintentionally reinforce bias or exclusion. Each entry offers simple, usable alternatives so readers can move from guesswork to confident, respectful communication in everyday situations, from workplaces to media to public conversations.

Designed as an easy reference, this guide by Creative Director and disability inclusion advocate, Misturah Abisola Owolabi centres lived experience and real-world context rather than rigid rules. It recognises that language evolves, and that respect comes from listening, not memorising terms. With a consistent, accessible format and practical examples, it helps readers unlearn assumptions, understand nuance, and make better language choices in the moment, without overthinking it.