Capacitismo linguístico no texto constitucional: uma reflexão crítica sobre a expressão “pessoa portadora de deficiência”

Abstract

This study presents a critical analysis of “linguistic ableism” in the Brazilian constitutional text, focusing on the expression “person carrying a disability.” It argues that this terminology, rooted in the medical model, separates disability from the individual’s identity, perpetuating dehumanizing and exclusionary views. Conversely, the study proposes adopting the term “person with a disability,” aligned with the social model, which regards disability as an integral part of identity and highlights the collective responsibility to eliminate social barriers. The analysis is based on a bibliographic review and a documentary examination of the Brazilian Federal Constitution. Grounded in an interdisciplinary methodology that combines philosophy, critical linguistics, and the “semantics of the event,” the research examines how legal language can reinforce social inequalities and stereotypes. The findings suggest the need to critically revisit legal language to ensure inclusive rights enforcement and foster the appreciation of human diversity.