5 Tips to Using Inclusive Language in Your Communications
Using inclusive language in your digital communication—whether it's on social media, in email, or on your website—is essential for creating an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. This is important not only for your organization’s external audiences but also for your internal audiences (staff, board members, etc.).
Here are five tips to help you use inclusive language effectively in your digital communications:
1. Ditch the Gender Defaults:
Not everyone identifies as "he" or "she." When unsure of individual pronouns, "they" is a safe and respectful choice.
Move beyond generic terms like "businessman" or "salesman." Opt for gender-neutral alternatives like "businessperson" or "sales representative."
Avoid terms that are gender-specific like “guys”. Use “folks” or “everyone” instead.
2. Embrace Person-First Language:
People come before their characteristics. Instead of saying "the disabled community," say "the community of people with disabilities." This shift emphasizes the personhood and individuality within each group.
Replace "normal" with "typical," "confined to a wheelchair" with "uses a wheelchair," and "handicapped" with "person with a disability." Remember, ability is diverse, and language should reflect that.
3. Mind the Age Gap:
Avoid age-biased language like "senior citizen." These labels can be dismissive and disrespectful.
Instead of saying “elderly” use “older adults”. Instead of “mature workforce” say “experienced workforce”.
4. Celebrate Cultural Nuances:
Across cultures, words and phrases have different meanings. Avoid stereotypes and unfamiliar idioms that might offend.
Do your research! Be mindful of your audience’s diverse backgrounds.
When referencing cultural practices, traditions, or holidays, use accurate and respectful terminology.
Remember, respect goes beyond words – avoid appropriating or misrepresenting cultures. For example, "Namaste" is a sacred term in Hinduism, use it with respect. And "Powwow" refers to important Indigenous gatherings, not just any meeting.
5. Specificity Matters:
Instead of using broad terms like "ethnic group" or "BIPOC." Choose to use specific and respectful terminology.
Consider using terms like "racialized person" or "racialized community" to acknowledge shared experiences without generalizing.
Remember, inclusive language is a journey. Embrace feedback graciously and learn from mistakes. Beyond vocabulary, consider inclusivity in visuals, storytelling, and amplifying diverse voices. By incorporating these tips, you can become a more inclusive communicator, fostering connections and building a more equitable world, one word at a time
Inclusive language is an ongoing journey. Be open to feedback, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. If someone politely corrects you, acknowledge it, thank them, and learn from it. This demonstrates your willingness to grow and create a more inclusive space for everyone.
Remember, inclusivity extends beyond vocabulary. Consider the visuals you use, the stories you tell, and the voices you amplify. Let your communication represent the richness and diversity of your community.
Ready to dive deeper? Explore the resources I used to research this blog:
https://www.edmonton.ca/public-files/assets/document?path=PDF/InclusiveLanguageGuide2019.pdf
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/careers/all-employees/working-with-others/words-matter.pdf
https://www.edi.uwo.ca/resources/reports/Inclusive-Language-Guide.pdf
https://assets.brand.ubc.ca/downloads/ubc_indigenous_peoples_language_guide.pdf
https://www.utm.utoronto.ca/imi/imi-inclusive-communications-practice-guide-writing-verbal-language