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Use Inclusive Language.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
"It doesn't take many micros to make it macro."-
Donald M. Bell

I really appreciated this recorded presentation and panel discussion on the importance of health care clinicians using inclusive language.

Some highlights:

  • Correct invalidating medical forms (e.g. not only providing the choices of he/she).
  • Connect children's mental health to "social prosperity," instead of the disempowering term of "vulnerability."
  • "One's identity belongs to one's self." Don't make assumptions around addressing someone (e.g. defaulting to first name or assuming a gender identity).
  • Don't deadname a person and then use your power to put the blame back on them for your mistake.
  • Default to person-first language and ask how the individual wants to be addressed.
  • "What is your responsibility as a person of privilege of getting us to a place of social equity, where we can realize the value of all people?"-Donald M. Bell
  • Use empowering language and ask for collective preferred terms (e.g. same gender loving).

If you want to further explore inclusive language you may consider:

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