How to Use Diverse and Inclusive Language in Communities.
In today's society, it’s not only progressive but it’s crucial we use diverse and inclusive language when communicating in our communities.
The language you chose to use can be seen over many different avenues.
Do you send regular newsletters or write blogs? Organise in-person or virtual events? Have any followers on social media?
If you do, the language you use is being read.
So what is diverse and inclusive language? It’s respectful, sensitive, and inclusive of all people. Regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, or ability.
And how can we ensure we’re using appropriate language when interacting, engaging and building our communities?
Check out 5 ways on how to do this…
Don’t assume somebody’s pronouns.
Using gender-neutral language is important. Never assume a person’s gender identity.
For example, instead of saying "he" or "she," use "they" or "them" to refer to an individual.
Using pronouns are part of everyday conversation and we use them all the time to explain who we are referring to, but getting someone’s pronouns wrong can be very upsetting.
Check out this wonderful pronouns guide by AKT.
We’ve been using “handyman”, “manpower”, “postman” (and so on) since forever. But how gendered is this? Simply replacing ‘man’ with “person” will make your comms more inclusive. And that’s great!
Are you aware of ableist language?
What is ableist language? It’s language that discriminates against individuals with disabilities.
We see this language everywhere. Even in international news stories. In this headline, 7 News say, the Queensland flood warnings have fallen on “deaf ears”.
Ever used or heard terms like “They were crazy”, “My workload is insane”, “That event was lame”? The use of language like this can be harmful to those who experience mental or physical disabilities.
Instead use neutral terms such as “unusual”, “challenging” or “different”.
The above is pretty direct.
But let’s go back to assumptions.
When sending out comms to your community, think wide. Include all. For example if you’re setting up a virtual event, you may want to let those attending know whether or not it’s interactive or inform them of the format of the call. Your neurodiverse audience may appreciate the heads up.
We found a really helpful BBC article on “The harmful ableist language you unknowingly use”.
Never use offensive terms.
As a Community Manager, this is a non-negotiable when it comes to building wonderful networks. Avoid offensive terms, always.
But how can you censor others using offensive language in your communities?
Creating Community Guidelines is a great idea and establishing what language is acceptable and what is not, will allow you to create and build a safe, inclusive community for all.
So what things could you include in the guidelines?
How you expect community members to treat one another. (For example, with kindness, respect and support)
Approach forums will an open mind
Don’t make assumptions (in regards to race, sexuality, gender etc)
Do not voice personal political opinions
If anybody feels bullied, unsafe or would like to report an incident, give clear instructions on how to voice this to the Community Manager and of course make sure you - ACTION!
Outlining clear community guidelines will set the standard for how members are expected to use the community and how to communicate fairly in the language they use.
Use cultural inclusive language.
Basically, using inclusive language includes and recognises diverse groups of people.
When posting on community forums, writing marketing materials or organising IRL/online events represent all those on the list.
This will make sure your community feels seen, included and comfortable.
But how can we use cultural language correctly? Firstly, don’t generalise.
For example, instead of using "Hispanic" or "Latino," use "Latinx" to be more inclusive of individuals who do not conform to gender binaries.
Secondly, never stereotype or make assumptions about people based on their cultural background.
If you're unsure about the appropriate language to use, it's always a good idea to ask for input from individuals within the community you're communicating with. (More on asking and listening below).
Always listen to feedback.
Picture this:
Community guidelines for your network have been posted
You and your team have sat in many DEI trainings and are clued up on how to use language appropriately in your community
All community members are following guidelines until…
A comment has been posted in a forum and somebody has reported bullying. Somebody in your network has mis-gendered somebody and has caused offence.
How should you respond?
Acknowledge and take the complaint seriously
Follow your own guidelines
Resolve the issue quickly
Learn from the feedback
All members of your community should feel safe enough to report any harmful language used on your platforms and it’s super important to listen to feedback regarding use of language.
If someone tells you that your language is offensive or hurtful, take their feedback seriously and make an effort to change this.
Basically, it’s really up to everybody to check in with the language we use, when we use it and how we are listening to those around us. Language and terminology is constantly changing and evolving so keep doing the work and check in with your community!
In a previous blog, we wrote about ways to create diverse, inclusive and accessible communities.