What is inclusive writing?
Inclusive writing goes beyond following a set of rules. It is writing that:
- Acknowledges and respects diversity.
- Makes your audience feel safe and included.
- Uses language free from discrimination or stereotypes.
- Continually acknowledges and critically reflects on your own biases and assumptions.
- Involves learning from mistakes, and a dedication to continue learning and growing.
Inclusive writing is important because it makes your audience feel welcome, safe, and respected. Using inclusive language in your writing builds trust between you and your audience, and helps ensure that all members of your audience feel that they're included in the conversation. It's important to keep in mind that inclusive language isn't static, and that appropriate terminology will change over time.
Aim for care, not correctness
Sensitive and inclusive language communicates care and respect for all people, and a big part of that is recognizing the role that language plays in maintaining systemic oppression. Language has the power to cause harm or perpetuate violence. It can also be empowering, uplifting, and compassionate. In the words of Alex Kapitan, the Radical Copyeditor,
Language can hurt or heal; it can cause harm or create liberation—the choice is ours.
As you work your way through this tutorial, remember that the goal is to avoid harm, not to find the "right word" to use. Communicating with care requires an ongoing commitment to engaging with communities that have been oppressed for centuries.
Sources
- Conscious Communication and the Power of Language by Alex Kapitan
- Radical Copyediting: Because Language Transforms Reality by Alex Kapitan
- There's No Such Thing as Being "Oversensitive" over Violence, Trauma, and Oppression by Alex Kapitan