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State Law Drops Outdated Disability Terminology

September 27, 2026

Top story

State Law Replaces Outdated Disability-Related Terminology

Gov. Maura Healey signed legislation that strikes the 'r-word' and other outdated references such as 'handicap' from Massachusetts law, replacing them with person-first terms like 'person with a disability.' State Sen. Patricia D. Jehlen (D-Somerville), who joined advocates at the signing, said she first filed a bill to remove the slur 22 years ago. She said more than 350 sections of the general laws that still used offensive words are now being updated.

The Somerville Times

Puzzle Palooza and Swap at Central Library Today

Somerville Public Library hosts an open puzzle exchange and speed puzzling competition for teams at the Central Library auditorium today, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Somerville Public Library

Oakwood, Empty Parking Lot and Camping in Alaska at Crystal Ballroom

Indie rock acts Oakwood, Empty Parking Lot, and Camping in Alaska play the Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre tonight; doors open at 7 p.m.

Crystal Ballroom

Improvement Movement Performs at Warehouse XI Tonight

Improvement Movement takes the stage tonight at 8 p.m. at Warehouse XI, 11 Sanborn Court, Somerville.

Concerts 50

Somerville Flea Returns to Davis Square Today

The Somerville Flea runs today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 56 Holland Street, with dozens of vendors marking its 13th year.

Catfish Cult

Fall Loaf Exchange Invites Somerville Bakers Today

The Loov hosts a Fall Loaf Exchange today from 4 to 6 p.m. at 72 Joy Street; bring a homemade loaf to trade for slices from other bakers.

The Loov

Union Comedy's Cagematch Brings an Improv Showdown Tonight

Union Comedy hosts Cagematch tonight at 7 p.m. at 593 Somerville Ave.; two improv teams face off and the audience decides who advances.

Union Comedy

Zen Writers and Poets Society Meets Today in Somerville

The Zen Writers and Poets Society meets today from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Zen Art Center, combining guided meditation with time to write and share poetry or prose.

Zen Writers and Poets Society

The Jungle Hosts Riki Rock Steady and Four Other Acts Tonight

Live music at The Jungle starts tonight at 8 p.m., featuring Riki Rock Steady, The Porter Squares, DJ Ben Sherman, and Futon Lasagna; bar and kitchen open at 7 p.m.

The Jungle

All-Levels Dance Church Class at SomArt Today

Dance Church runs today from 10 to 11:15 a.m. at SomArt @ The Hive, 561 Windsor Street; the guided class welcomes people with no prior dance experience.

Dance Church

Conway Park Hosts Sunday Playground Strength Workout

The Wellness Blueprint runs Playground Strength today from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at Conway Park, 550 Somerville Avenue, combining cardio, strength, and grip exercises.

The Wellness Blueprint

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