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Using Inclusive Language

 

Writing should incorporate inclusive language that does not misuse an individual's gender, race, age, etc.

 

Pronouns should not "default" to either the masculine or feminine case.

  • Incorrect Ex: A nurse will spend most of her career caring for patients.
  • Revised Ex: A nurse will spend a significant amount of time caring for patients.

To eliminate sexist language, place the preceding noun in plural form.

  • Incorrect Ex: A child should study if he wants to succeed academically.
  • Revised Ex: Children should study if they want to succeed academically.

To correct sexist language, include both the masculine and the feminine pronouns.

  • Incorrect Ex: As an adolescent matures, he becomes more aware of adult issues.
  • Revised Ex: As an adolescent matures, he or she becomes more aware of adult issues.

To avoid sexist language, eliminate the pronoun altogether.

  • Incorrect Ex: An employee has expressed her concern about sexual harassment.
  • Revised Ex: An employee has expressed concern about sexual harassment.

To eliminate sexist language, be careful not to stereotype sex roles.

  • Incorrect Ex: The common man should understand that point.
  • Revised Ex: The average person should understand that point.

Avoid adding a person's age, race, or gender unless that point is relevant to the discussion.

  • Incorrect Ex: He's a very open-minded Hispanic in our community.
  • Revised Ex: He maintains an open mind in our community.

When choosing to include information about a person's age, race, or gender, mention these factors for all individuals who are being discussed.

  • Incorrect Ex: The older white males were significantly outnumbered in the voting process.
  • Revised Ex: The older white males were significantly outnumbered by young African American females in the voting process.

Avoid making reference to a person's competency as if it were unusual for a member of a certain group.

  • Incorrect Ex: He's an intelligent elderly man.
  • Revised Ex: He's intelligent.

Focus on the person rather than on the disability or condition of the person. Remember that the condition or disability is not what defines the whole person.

  • Incorrect Ex: Cancer patients need special seating accommodations during the trial.
  • Revised Ex: Individuals being treated for cancer will need special seating arrangements during the trial.

Check you understanding of this handout with Exercise 1: Using Inclusive Language.