People value diversity more and more, so using a more gender-inclusive writing really matters. This article invites you to explore the transformative power of words that embrace every identity, as it delves into the nuances of creating narratives that resonate with everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting out, this exploration will empower you to create a more inclusive space through your words, ensuring that everyone feels seen and heard. Discover the art of inclusive storytelling, as every voice deserves to be heard.
What is Gender-Inclusive Writing?
Gender-inclusive writing is a conscious approach to language that avoids bias toward particular sex or gender identities. It’s about creating content that speaks to everyone, regardless of their gender identity. In other words, it is an intentional effort to avoid language that presumes or privileges one gender over others, and to use terms that are inclusive and representative of everyone’s experiences.
One of the key aspects of gender-inclusive writing is the use of gender-neutral pronouns. Traditional pronouns like “he” and “she” can be limiting and exclusionary, especially for individuals who do not identify within the binary gender framework. Using “they” as a singular pronoun or adopting neopronouns like “ze” and “hir” helps to acknowledge and respect the identities of non-binary and gender-diverse individuals.
Common Misconceptions about Gender-Inclusive Writing
There are plenty of misconceptions about gender-inclusive writing, like the fact that it is difficult. Critics often argue that it complicates language unnecessarily, making sentences awkward. However, this assumption overlooks the flexibility and richness of language.
Another common misconception is that gender-inclusive writing is a modern trend, driven by political correctness rather than genuine necessity. Gender inclusivity in writing is not about following trends, but about recognising and valuing the diverse experiences and identities that exist within our society.
Finally, some think that gender-inclusive writing caters only to non-binary or transgender individuals. However, gender-inclusive writing is mainly about challenging and broadening the understanding of gender for everyone. By adopting gender-inclusive language, you can foster a more inclusive environment for all readers.
Core Principles of Gender-Inclusive Writing
The principles of gender-inclusive writing are based on respect, equality, and inclusivity.
According to the United Nations, there are several strategies that can be used to make your writing more inclusive, at least from a gender-based perspective.
Some examples are:
- Forms of Address
Here, instead of using the name or the suffix “Mrs.” in case we are talking about a female, we can use the suffix “Ms.” or the title (for example, Professor) + Last name. This way, we will prioritise and focus on the action carried out by that person and not their gender or marital status.
- Avoid Expressions or Pronouns that Reinforce Gender Stereotypes
The best way to realise if we are using a biased language or a stereotype is to think: “what would happen if we used the other gender instead?”
❌ “Each manager should submit his report”
✅ “Managers should submit their reports”
❌ “Fathers babysit their children.”
✅ “Fathers care for their children.”
- Only Use the Specific Gender When It’s Relevant
Sometimes, highlighting the gender of the person can be useful to embrace inclusion, (for example, “both, men and women, ….” However, it may not always be necessary, and it can be repetitive when used too many times within a text. Therefore, we can opt for using “all + [noun]” instead.
Here, we can also use gender-neutral words (“humankind” instead of “mankind”), the pronouns “who”, “they” or “one” instead of “he”/ “she”, as well as a plural antecedent “they … themselves”.
Alternatively, we can opt for omitting the gendered word or using the passive voice, as long as the message is concise and clear. Please know that, depending on the context of our communication, the passive voice may not be recommended as it makes readability harder.
Specific Examples of Gender-Neutral Language in Context
Email Opening
❌ “Dear Sir/Madam”
✅ “Dear [Name]”
✅ “Dear Customer Service Team”
✅ “Hello everyone”
Job Posting
❌ “We’re looking for a strong chairman to lead our board. He should have 10 years of experience…”
✅ “We’re seeking an experienced chairperson to lead our board. The ideal candidate will have 10 years of experience…”
Company Policy
❌ “Each employee must submit his timesheet by Friday”
✅ “Employees must submit their timesheets by Friday”
✅ “Please submit your timesheet by Friday”
Practical Implementation Tips
1. Review and Revise
To make sure that you or your company uses a gender-inclusive writing, it is key to scan your texts for gendered terms and try to find alternatives, always considering the cultural context of your audience.
2. Maintain Clarity
Being inclusive is important, but so is using a clear language that everyone can understand. Make sure that your message remains clear and professional, and, when possible, use natural language that flows well.
3. Stay Consistent
To achieve this, apply inclusive language throughout your document and create style guides for your organisation to make sure that everyone uses the same tone and terms. Finally, it is also critical to review and update existing content regularly.
Resources and Tools for Gender-Inclusive Writing
There are many resources and tools are available to help you adopt gender-inclusive practices. For example:
— Style guides and manuals on gender-neutral language. Publications like the Chicago Manual of Style and the APA Style Guide offer comprehensive advice on how to use inclusive language effectively.
— Online platforms and communities also offer support and guidance for gender-inclusive writing. The Gender-Inclusive Language Guidelines by the European Citizen Action Services and similar forums dedicated to inclusive writing provide a wealth of information and examples.
— Educational workshops and seminars on gender inclusivity can be immensely beneficial. Participating in such workshops not only enhances one’s knowledge but also provides practical tips and strategies for implementing inclusive language in writing.
— The work done by organisations like Gender Spectrum, which provides resources and training for incorporating gender-inclusive language into educational materials.
—The initiative by media outlets like The Guardian and The New York Times, as well as publishing houses like Penguin Random House, which have adopted gender-neutral language in their work, and have created their own guidelines.
Challenges and Solutions for Gender-Inclusive Practices
Despite the benefits of gender-inclusive writing, one can often face several challenges in adopting these practices, like overcoming ingrained habits and biases. Moreover, you may need to fight the potential resistance or criticism from readers who may not understand or appreciate the importance of gender inclusivity or even view gender-inclusive language as unnecessary or politically driven.
Finding the right balance between inclusivity and readability can be difficult. One must ensure that their language is inclusive without compromising clarity or coherence. This requires skilful integration of gender-neutral terms and careful consideration of sentence structure. Striking this balance is crucial for creating engaging and accessible content.
Potential solutions can be introducing modern alternatives gradually while educating the target audience, adapting the chosen approach based on linguistic and cultural context and sharing concrete examples and benefits of inclusive language to raise awareness.
Conclusion: Embracing a More Inclusive Narrative
Gender-inclusive writing is about creating a more equitable and welcoming environment through thoughtful communication. By embracing gender-inclusive practices, you can contribute to a more equitable and respectful narrative space.
This journey involves challenging traditional norms, adopting new language conventions, and fostering empathy for diverse experiences and identities while creating stories that resonate with everyone. Gender-inclusive language involves recognizing the power of words and their ability to shape perceptions and experiences.
Let’s create narratives that reflect the rich diversity of human experiences and identities to build a more inclusive and respectful world through the power of our words.
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