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reading time: 2 minutes

Right #3 of the Communication Bill of Rights reads: The right to refuse or reject undesired objects, actions, events, or choices.

The right to refuse is a critical component of both self-advocacy and autonomy.

Self-advocacy can be defined as the action of representing oneself or one's views or interests.
Autonomy can be defined as the ability to be one’s own person and makes decisions for oneself.

There are so many scenarios in a person’s day where refusing something might come up. Being able to say “not right now” or “I’m not ready” or “this isn’t working for me” offers control over one’s life and environment. Being able to say “no” and “stop” and “I don’t like that” are also crucial for safety reasons.

When children are young, there can often be a focus on following directions, compliance, and following rules. While these are important skills, these cannot be the only skills emphasized. If refusal and rejection are not also taught, supported, and encouraged, communication partners are unintentionally doing a disservice. Not fostering self-advocacy skills early and often could result in people without the critical skill of advocating for themselves which can be dangerous if they find themselves in a harmful or abusive situation.

How do we promote this right?

For Communication Partners

Make sure that everyone is aware of the Communication Bill of Rights.
Inform and train communication partners on how they can best communicate and interact with AAC users.
Whenever possible, honor an AAC user’s rejection or refusal. When it is not possible, explain why and discuss alternatives.

For AAC Users

Help people with disabilities understand their communication rights.
Provide culturally and linguistically responsive supports for AAC users to develop this skill area.
Provide AAC users with relevant vocabulary for refusing and rejecting.
Encourage AAC users to self-advocate.

Your Perspective

What would you add? Join the conversation by commenting below! Share your thoughts, ideas, strategies, resources, and/or tips for supporting AAC users' ability to refuse or reject.