"It doesn't take many micros to make it macro."-
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: