Examples of Exclusive Language:
* Gender-exclusive language: Using terms like "mankind" or "he" when referring to all people.
* Racial/ethnic-exclusive language: Making assumptions about people based on their race or ethnicity, or using language that reinforces stereotypes.
* Age-exclusive language: Treating older or younger people differently, or using language that reinforces ageist stereotypes.
* Ability-exclusive language: Using language that focuses on a person's disability, rather than their abilities.
* Sexual orientation-exclusive language: Making assumptions about people's sexual orientation, or using language that excludes LGBTQ+ people.
* Class-exclusive language: Using language that privileges certain socioeconomic classes, or excludes those who are less fortunate.
* Religious-exclusive language: Making assumptions about people's religion, or using language that excludes people of different faiths.
Why is Exclusive Language Harmful?
Exclusive language can have a number of negative consequences:
* It creates a sense of "otherness" and can lead to discrimination and prejudice.
* It reinforces stereotypes and prejudices.
* It can make people feel excluded and unwelcome.
* It can limit opportunities and access to resources for marginalized groups.
* It can create a hostile and unwelcoming environment for everyone.
Inclusive Language
In contrast to exclusive language, inclusive language is language that seeks to include and respect all people. It uses terms that are gender-neutral, avoids stereotypes, and recognizes the diversity of human experience.
Promoting Inclusive Language
We can all work to promote inclusive language by:
* Being mindful of our language choices.
* Educating ourselves about different groups of people.
* Challenging exclusive language when we hear it.
* Using inclusive language in our own communication.
Using inclusive language is not just about being politically correct. It's about creating a more just and equitable society for everyone.