When we prioritize an inclusive language environment, everyone feels more welcome. This makes learning more able to take place. Our language use is influenced by social and cultural factors. Those factors sometimes can make us unaware of the impact of our words (CoachHub, 2022). One way to prevent unintentional harm is to be more aware of inclusive language practices. However, inclusive language is more than just avoiding offense or being “politically correct”; instead, it is a communication style that stays curious and respectful to others. Inclusive language use works to “honor the diverse identities of every person in the room and invites them to be part of the conversation” (Ferguson, n.d., p. 6).
Language is a living entity that changes for building common and shared understandings. Boston University (n.d.) curates a Living Language Guide. Sometimes people claim that certain phrases and words were more socially acceptable in the past, but it is important to note that, generally, language use that is problematic usually has a longer legacy of harm that was problematic—even in the past. It is up to us now to make ourselves and others more aware of the impact of that language.
Similarly, sometimes people find it difficult to “keep up” with inclusive language, and that can feel really difficult. To counteract that, educators can build in time to practice more inclusive phrases with trusted people. In addition, it’s important to remember that the more one can learn and better understand harmful legacies of terms, then the more belonging learners will feel. Some reflection questions for educators to reflect on their language and intentionality include: