Inclusive Language Creates Belonging

Evolving Our Language to Create a Safe Space

Idioms, colloquialisms, and metaphors play a significant role in our daily communication. Though, they often carry undertones or histories that can cause harm or alienate certain employees. To foster inclusivity, equity, and productivity in the workplace, it is crucial to educate employees about identifying exclusionary or subtly offensive language. By doing so, we can create a more welcoming and harmonious environment.

Microlesson Description

This microlesson provides context for the importance of using inclusive language. Words and phrases with problematic origins have made their way into our vocabulary and some have become common industry terms. It's our responsibility to retire and replace these terms and phrases.

Inclusive Language Creates Belonging is one of three microlessons in our new Inclusive Language series. It partners well with the microlessons Facing Criticism, and The Principles of Inclusive Language. The lessons are also available as a full course, Inclusive Language Training, which contains an additional lesson.

Key Concepts

Problematic terms are deeply embedded in our language
It’s up to us to monitor and evolve our language
Inclusive language is respectful of different identities and characteristics
Inclusive language creates an environment where everyone feels safe, supported, and accepted