Inclusive language means finding ways to name, honor, and value experiences and identities. But before inclusive language is possible, it is vital to understand the ways that words and expressions can signal assumptions about people and unintentionally reinforce dominant ideas about gender, sexual orientation, race, class, ability and ...
However, when language ignores issues of power and equity that shape people’s lives, it only foments further exclusion of marginalized people. It is more important than ever to use language that creates inclusive and equitable cultures. Inclusive language is more than just avoiding the use of a few antiquated or offensive terms and phrases.
Inclusive language is a powerful tool for creating a more compassionate and understanding world. By consciously choosing words that embrace diversity and respect the identities of all individuals ...
Using inclusive language is not the same as policing or censoring language. Rather, it is operating from an awareness and acknowledgment of how language is experienced differently based on individual differences and cultural history. When referring to racially or ethnically marginalized communities, inclusive language may include:
respect. Start with the general principles for avoiding bias in language and cultivating an inclusive mindset; then apply those principles to specific topic areas. For more details, read the . Bias-Free Language Guidelines. and the Inclusive Language Guide. General Principles for Avoiding Bias 1. Describe people at the . appropriate level of ...
The goal of this guide is to provide you with tools to be inclusive and respectful in your language by putting the whole person at the center of your word choice. Quick Takeaways. Learn. Language is subjective, constantly changing, and can be non-verbal. When interacting with an individual who has a disability, always default to what that ...
Inclusive language embraces all areas of life—from the way everyday concepts are described to recognizing diverse families, physical and mental health, and gender identity and sexual orientation. The way people communicate sends subtle messages that can have a powerful effect. “We want to reevaluate the terms we use even when we don’t ...
Inclusive language is thoughtful communication that demonstrates respect for the dignity and humanity of all people. Inclusive language fosters an environment where everyone feels welcome, included, and safe. Most of us can quickly pinpoint non-inclusive language when it’s obvious, but some language is covertly harmful, making offensive terms ...
The Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis To Understand Inclusive Language. In the 1940s, Edward Sapir and Benjamin Whorf, two influential linguists, independently discovered that how a language is structured can significantly affect how speakers understand and interact with the world around them. Sapir highlighted in his book, Language: An Introduction to the Study of Speech, that physical or social ...
Inclusive language acknowledges diversity, conveys respect to all people, is sensitive to differences, and promotes equal opportunities. These guidelines highlight ways in which linguists can both lead the way in proactively writing inclusively and avoid past pitfalls or habits that may unintentionally lead to marginalization, offense ...
Inclusive language can help to promote and embed equality, diversity and inclusion. We need to practice empathy and consider the impact of the words and phrases we use on the experience of others. Everyone has different individual personal preferences about language and identity. Language is always evolving and changing.
Inclusive language is an essential component of communication, and it’s designed to avoid expressions or words that might be considered exclusionary or discriminatory toward particular groups of people, regardless of their location, gender, social status, education, etc.
Common examples of exclusionary language and how to make it inclusive language: Chances are, you use exclusionary language in everyday life without even realizing it. Luckily, a few small changes can make them inclusive, so your words won’t be harmful. Here are a few common exclusionary phrases and inclusive alternatives.
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Language. LGBTQ+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer or Questioning. The “+” stands in for all the other descriptors for sexual orientation. The initials and the various terms and descriptors are evolving fast so rather than trying to memorise the whole list, it’s more important to be respectful and use the ...
1. Use inclusive language. If you’re tasked with writing or editing content that includes terms associated with equity, diversity and inclusion, it’s important to avoid bias and to use inclusive language. Inclusive language is free from words, phrases, and tone that reflect discriminatory or stereotyped views of underrepresented people or ...
The goal of inclusive language is to be respectful of these preferences. Inclusive language matters because it: Fosters inclusion: Respectful language makes people with disabilities feel welcome and included in social groups. Creates a safe space: Inclusive language creates a space where everyone feels valued, respected and safe expressing ...
Inclusive communication is a powerful anti-oppression tool to build a sense of belonging that is free from patronizing stereotypes and discriminatory descriptors. General Principles. The following principles are adapted from inclusive language style guides produced by Queen’s University and the University of Victoria. Person-centered language ...
Language is shaped over time by societies to express thoughts, emotions, and shared realities, and inevitably translates into behaviour. Historically or etymologically, language has carried lasting biases, seen in male-assumed job roles of chairman, workman, businessman, fireman, postman, salesman, craftsman – the list is endless.