Why Is Gender Inclusive Language Important?

Given the key role of language in shaping cultural and social attitudes, using gender-inclusive language is a powerful way to promote gender equality and eradicate gender bias.

Why is it important to implement gender-inclusive language?

Why is gender-inclusive language important? As described by the UN, using gender-inclusive language is a powerful way to promote gender equality and eradicate gender bias. There is evidence that countries in which gendered languages are spoken there tends to be lower presence of women in the workforce.

Why is language inclusion important?

Inclusive language is essential to help people who have been historically marginalized (because of their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability status, and/or other aspects of their identity) feel included.

Why is gender important in language?

Gender is so tied to how we express ourselves that it can even impact the words we use every day! This may come as a surprise. At first, gender might seem irrelevant to language. However, researchers have repeatedly demonstrated a strong relationship between gender and how language is acquired, developed, and used.

Why is gender-inclusive language important in academic writing?

Word choices often unconsciously reflect preconceived and wrongful notions about gender roles, and hence we should make a conscious effort to not use language that stereotypes, constrains, or excludes others.

How is gender-inclusive language used?

A number of strategies can be applied, when speaking or writing in English, to be more gender-inclusive:

1. Use non-discriminatory language. 1.1 Forms of address.
2. Make gender visible when it is relevant for communication.
3. Do not make gender visible when it is not relevant for communication.

What are examples of inclusive language?

Some examples of inclusive language are:

• Introducing yourself with your pronouns e.g. I am x, the pronouns I use are she/her, him/he or they.
• Avoiding terms like “guys” for everyone and using gender neutral terms staff members, folks, volunteers, visitors or members.

Why is inclusive language persuasive?

Inclusive and Exclusive Language: Inclusive language such as “we”, “our”, “us” and exclusive language such as “them” can persuade by including the reader, or by creating a sense of solidarity or a sense of responsibility.

Why is inclusive language important in the workplace?

It is also language that does not deliberately or inadvertently exclude people from feeling accepted. The use of inclusive language plays an important role in promoting higher employee engagement, superior customer service and increased productivity—all important aspects of a positive work culture.

What is inclusive language in speech?

A: Inclusive language is a way of writing and speaking that aims to ensure all groups of people in the community are treated equally and with respect. Inclusive language aims to redress imbalances and discrimination inherent in existing language, ranging from exclusion to derogatory comments.

Does gender affect language development?

Numerous epidemiological studies (some of which we mentioned in Table 1) found significantly higher prevalence of communication, language, and speech disorders in boys than in girls. Likewise, the normal process of communication and language skills development is faster and more advanced in girls compared with boys.

What is the connection between language and gender?

“Language and gender” refers to the relationship between the language of male and female. Gender difference is not only a reflection of the speeches between male and female, but also a reflection of their different living styles and attitudes.

How does gendered language affect perception?

Such language is often lampooned as politically correct and excessively burdensome, but research shows that language affects perceptions. Perceptions, in turn, affect behavior, and using gender-neutral language can be a meaningful move toward gender equality.

How can we promote gender fair language?

1. Use Neutral Expressions Rather than Gender-Specific Ones in Phrases and Occupations. “police officer” instead of “policeman”
2. Use Plural Nouns and Pronouns Instead of Singular, Gender-Specific Forms. NOT: Every student should read his syllabus at the beginning of the term.
3. Reword to Avoid Gender Problems Entirely.

What does gender inclusivity mean?

Inclusivity, in its very definition, means to be open to everyone and not limited to certain people. In regard to gender, this means that services, establishments, schools, practitioners, government agencies, and other institutions are welcoming of all kids, regardless of their gender identity or expression.

Why is language so important?

Language is a vital part of human connection. Although all species have their ways of communicating, humans are the only ones that have mastered cognitive language communication. Language allows us to share our ideas, thoughts, and feelings with others. It has the power to build societies, but also tear them down.

How can you make gender inclusive at work?

6 ways to encourage gender diversity & gender inclusive language in the workplace

1. Make sure everyone feels heard.
2. Use people’s pronouns correctly.
3. Celebrate intersectionality.
4. Use, edit, and revise your language.
5. Offer benefits.
6. Provide inclusive physical and emotional spaces.

How do you promote inclusive language?

Inclusive language examples

1. Avoid company or team acronyms.
2. Use plain language in your writing rather than expressions or jargon.
3. Refer to a theoretical person as ‘they’ instead of ‘he’ or ‘she’.
4. Ensure your company’s designs or images reflect a diverse group of people.

Why are inclusive pronouns effective?

Inclusive pronouns can act as positive politeness devices by describing and/or critiquing common disciplinary practices, and elaborating arguments on behalf of the community. They can also organize the text for the reader, and highlight the current problems and subject areas which preoccupy the field.

What are the guidelines for using inclusive language?

Avoid words and phrases that indicate gender bias, such as irrelevant descriptions of appearance. Use descriptors of gender identity or sexual orientation as modifiers, not as nouns (for example, transgender person, cisgender person, or lesbian woman). Avoid guessing sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

How does inclusive language impact reader?

Effect on reader
In addition to feeling encouraged through inclusion in the group, they may be given a sense of responsibility. Being made part of a group may allow the reader to feel that they are being held responsible to the recommended action or belief of the writer.