Words versus Actions

We are working hard at getting rid of the "R" word yet our actions are not even close to treating people as people. When will the people that are served in a "system" be seen as people first? We spout that language, but the actions don't change! See me as a person first, as a real live valuable human being, then let's talk about how I want my life to be. Yes, I need support but does it have to be so confining that I cannot live as typical a life as I am capable of! Life is not risk-free, protecting me oftentimes makes me more vulnerable. When will you let me be a "person-first"? What will it take?