Today’s post is going to involve me lecturing you on everything you can and can’t say.

Be scared.

Be very scared.

Lols. I jest.

You can say whatever you want. But I’d encourage you to say some things instead of others.

Why?

Firstly, some usage of language counts as harassment or a hate crime. And I’m a big fan of encouraging people to not get arrested 😊

Also, lazy non-inclusive language creates cultures where stereotypes are perpetuated and particular people continue to be disadvantaged. Small changes as a speaker to normalise inclusive terms makes a huge difference.

Language is power. It creates societal norms and passes this onto the next generation. Let’s work together to make sure that we are creating the best possible world for the little ones, okay.

(Fun fact about me: I used to perform spoken word. I love using art to change the world. Here is an awesome video, A Visit from the PC Police, by Guante. That pretty much sums up why inclusive language is important.)

Anyway, let’s clarify: what is inclusive language?

Inclusive language positively reflects social and cultural diversity. It means choosing language that does not discriminate, exclude or undermine individuals and groups of people.

That doesn’t sound too threatening, does it?

That said, I get people worry that they might get something ‘wrong’ or feel too scared to challenge someone. And, hey, I get that. This comes from a place of fear.

But, to reassure you, I’m not asking you to memorise an entire new vocabulary. Be prepared you might not choose the entirely best practice term all the time. Try anyway :)

In this week’s newsletter, I’m going to go over the key principles of inclusive language and how to approach supporting others to choose more inclusive terms.

See you in your inbox on Friday!

p.s. if you are keen to do some reading on inclusive language guides, the NHS has guidance on ‘Writing for and about people in a way that is inclusive and respectful’; NICE has tips on ‘Talking about people, including deaf and blind, age, faith, family origin, gender’; the Chartered Insurers Institute has publicly available guidance on inclusive language which is super; and if you are looking specifically for terms regarding sexual orientation and gender reassignment, head to Stonewall’s Glossary.