Effective communication within organisations goes beyond mere words; it shapes attitudes, perceptions, and inclusivity within the workplace and beyond. Language is a powerful tool that can either reinforce stereotypes and biases or promote respect and understanding. As organisations strive to create inclusive environments, adopting person-first and identity-first language is crucial. That is where the importance of respectful conversation comes in. By making simple yet meaningful language swaps, organisations uphold principles of dignity and equality. Moreover, organisations can also set a precedent for positive societal change.
Respectful communication: The tall task
Language plays a pivotal role in influencing societal norms and behaviours. By implementing person-first and identity-first language in communication protocols, one can actively contribute to fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity.
Terms to avoid and their alternatives in respectful communication
Here are some common terms one should avoid, along with suggested alternatives:
- Term to avoid: Wheelchair-bound
Alternatives to use:
- Confined to a wheelchair
- A person who uses a wheelchair
- Wheelchair user
- Terms to avoid:
- Mentally ill
- Crazy
- Insane
- Mental defect
- Suffers from or is afflicted with [condition]
Suggested alternatives:
- A person living with a mental illness
- A person with a preexisting mental health disorder
- A person with a preexisting behavioural health disorder
- A person with a diagnosis of a mental illness/mental health disorder/behavioural health disorder
- Term to avoid: Asylum
Alternative that you can use: Psychiatric hospital/facility
- Term to avoid: drug user/abuser
Suggested alternatives:
- Addict
- A person who uses drugs
- A person who injects drugs
- A person with substance use disorder
- Term to avoid: Alcoholic
Suggested alternatives:
- Alcohol abuser
- A person with alcohol use disorder
- A person in recovery from substance use/alcohol disorder
- The person taking/prescribed medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Term to avoid: Smoker
Alternative to use: A person who smokes
- Term to avoid: Homeless people
Alternatives that one can use:
- The homeless
- Transient populations
- People without housing
- People experiencing homelessness
- People experiencing unstable housing/housing insecurity/people who are not securely housed
- People experiencing unsheltered homelessness
- Clients/guests who are accessing homeless services
- People experiencing houselessness
- People experiencing housing or food insecurity
- Term to avoid: Prostitute
Suggested alternatives:
- A person who engages in sex work
- Sex worker (abbreviated as SWer)
- Term to avoid: Prisoner
Suggested alternatives:
- Convict
- A person who is/has been incarcerated
- Term to avoid: Slave
Alternative: A person who is/was enslaved
The impact of respectful communication
The impact of these language practices extends beyond the workplace. Employees who learn and practice respectful communication at work often carry these principles into their homes and communities. This ripple effect can lead to broader societal change, where individuals are more mindful of their language and its implications on others’ dignity and self-worth.
Addressing LGBTQIA+ inclusion
Language plays a pivotal role in shaping the perceptions of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Outdated or derogatory terms can perpetuate stigma and marginalisation. Adopting inclusive language that respects individuals’ gender identities and sexual orientations fosters an environment where LGBTQIA+ employees feel affirmed and valued. Gender-appropriate language not only demonstrates organisational support for diversity but also contributes to a broader societal acceptance and understanding of LGBTQIA+ issues.
The final thoughts
Promoting respectful communication through person-first and identity-first language is not just about adhering to political correctness; it’s about fostering a culture of empathy and inclusion where every individual feels valued and respected. Organisations that prioritise these language shifts demonstrate their commitment to equity and fairness, contributing to a more harmonious and understanding society. As we continue to evolve in our understanding of diversity and inclusion, embracing these language practices is a tangible step towards building a better, more respectful world for all.
By encouraging these language shifts within organisational cultures, we can pave the way for positive change that reaches far beyond the workplace walls and influences societal attitudes and behaviours for generations to come.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are based on the writer’s insights, supported by data and resources available both online and offline, as applicable. Changeincontent.com is committed to promoting inclusivity across all forms of content, which we define broadly to include media, policies, law, and history—encompassing all elements that influence the lives of women and gender-queer individuals. Our goal is to promote understanding and advocate for comprehensive inclusivity.
