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Rush University System for Health

Words Matter: Upgrading Your Communications With Inclusive Language

Authentic Content October 28, 2020 Nikki Hopewell (she/her)

• Sr. Communications Strategist, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

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What inclusive language really is … and what it is not

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Why inclusive language matters at your organization

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Guiding principles to help steer your communications

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How to operationalize and put inclusive language into practice

What inclusive language really is … and what it is not

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Problematic inclusive language definitions 1

Inclusive language … Avoids biases, slang and everyday phrases with racist origins.

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Inclusive language … Avoids gendered or exclusive terms that will decrease the likelihood of attracting a targeted candidate profile.

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Inclusive language … Avoids expressions that discriminate against groups of people based on race, gender or socioeconomic status.

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What inclusive language is not …

Inclusive language is:

• Not about political correctness
• Not tiptoeing around “land mines”
• Not restrictive

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So what is inclusive language really?

Inclusive language is about putting into practice effective language that is:

• Accurate
• Respectful
• Relevant to everyone

BONUS: When it’s done properly, it’s expansive because it reflects diversity and inclusion.

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Empowering inclusive language definition

Why inclusive language matters at your organization

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What is inclusion?

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Why inclusive language matters

Source: #WordsAtWork; Diversity Council Australia

Language is a powerful tool …

It can either build inclusion/belonging/connectedness or exclusion at work, depending on how it’s used.

The power of inclusive language

It drives organizational performance because everyone in your

• rganization will feel:
• Valued
• Respected
• Able to contribute their unique talents

Guiding principles to help steer your communications

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Person-first language

Person first + disability second = person/individual with a disability

*Identity-first language

Disability first + person second = disabled person *Caveat: Some people with disabilities may prefer to be acknowledged with identity-first language; always ask their preference to be sure.

Personal pronouns

Pronouns reflect a person’s gender expression (e.g., She/her, he/him, they/them, ze/zir). It signals affirmation and respect to individuals who are transgender, non- binary, gender non-conforming and cisgender.

Gender-neutral/gender-inclusive language

Recognizes that others exist outside of the gender binary and is a powerful way to promote equality and get rid of gender bias (e.g., chairman becomes chairperson or chair).

Service line or presentation name |

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Breaking down ableist language

What is ableist language? Language that’s offensive to people with disabilities. It can refer to language that’s abusive, derogatory or negative toward people with disabilities or when disability is stereotyped, stigmatized or pitied.

Ableist Words Recommended Alternatives

Confined to a wheelchair Wheelchair user Crazy (insulting to mental health issues) Person with a mental health condition Normal Neurotypical Blind spot Unconscious bias Tone deaf Insensitive, out of context

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What’s in a personal pronoun?

“Preferred pronouns” is problematic.

It suggests that it’s a preference and not necessary. Simply ask, “What are your pronouns?”

Context is everything.

It’s important to match the pronouns that individuals are using for themselves, even if it varies in different settings. They may choose to vary pronouns for reasons of:

• Safety, if they’re in a unfamiliar setting
• Concerns around self-disclosure if they’re not yet out

Visit my www.mypronouns.org to learn more about why pronouns matter.

Put it in neutral

Well-intended neutral words tend to be masculine in nature. So, for example, instead of “Hey, guys,” try …

Key things to remember about inclusive language

• 1. Have a willingness to fold in as many people as possible

when you communicate.

• 2. Be ready to learn, listen and understand the people you are

addressing and communicating about.

• 3. If in doubt, please see Nos. 1 and 2.

How to operationalize and put inclusive language into practice

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Inclusive language is a seal of commitment that reflects your dedication to diversity and inclusion within your organization.

Where do I start?

Learn the Platinum Rule (vs. the Golden Rule)

The Golden Rule: Treat others the way you would have them treat you, gets an upgrade to the Platinum Rule: Treat others the way they would want to be treated. This requires us to not just tolerate or even acknowledge differences but celebrate them.

It starts with me

Take steps to embrace inclusive language yourself:

• Educate yourself. Learn terminology and best practices.
• Practice actively listening to others.
• Use it yourself so it becomes habit and models behavior for others.
• Exercise compassion for yourself if you make a mistake. Acknowledge

it, apologize, learn from it and move on.

Thank you! Bye, everyone! ☺