Thanks to globalization, societies today are more diverse and multicultural. In this regard, individuals cannot underestimate the value of inclusive language. Generally, inclusive language is defined as a form of engagement where individuals avoid words or expressions that exclude specific individuals or groups of people. Language has a high exclusion potential, and the most at-risk individuals include the traditionally underprivileged or underrepresented (Lauring & Klitmøller, 2017). The common examples of language exclusion victims include racial minorities and members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBT) community (Using Inclusive Language: Guidelines and Examples). Inclusive language is also crucial because it prevents the prospects of demeaning or offending individuals based on perceptions, prejudice, or stereotypes.
I have found myself in various situations where incidents of exclusive language were used. For instance, there was a time I was part of a conference that both men and women attended. However, when a male speaker was given the opportunity to speak, he received backlash for his apparent misogynistic and gender-insensitive language. Despite women occupying almost half of the hall, the speaker was determined to use insensitive words like "mankind," "manmade," "chairman," and "actor." The women in the conference were visibly annoyed and complained later about the blatant disregard and disrespect. Gender-sensitive language is crucial in recognizing men's and women's roles in society (Bottcher & Lopatta, 2018). It is also a way of expressing equality and acknowledging the importance of all genders.
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I have also been interacting where individuals used a language or an expression that carried a significant unsupported message. Such a language has the potential of enhancing discrimination and creating a sense of exclusion. In a recent disability meeting held by a local politician, one speaker decided to refer to the people with disabilities as "handicapped." One physically disabled person stood and rebuked the speaker for using such a term. People living with a disability are not necessarily handicapped. They can perform a wide array of roles and duties that non-disabled people do. Their condition does not necessarily amount to inability. Therefore, they regarded this as a blatant ignorance and failure to acknowledge their importance in society.
In another encounter, while working in the street, a man referred to a lesbian couple using the word "lesbo." At that time, I did not understand the implication or the significance of the name to the LGBTQ community. The partners reacted angrily and almost engaged in a fistfight with the person. Later on, I realized that the term "lesbo" is offensive and is associated with negative and unsupported messages. It is meant to ridicule and create a sense of deviance. However, members of LGBTQ are known for their sensitivity to derogative and exclusive language. The interactions have enabled me to appreciate the importance of using inclusive language.
From all these encounters, it remains critical to appreciate that the relationship between communicators suffered immediately they noticed the use of exclusive language. I realized that every person wants to feel acknowledged while communicating. When people know their worth in society, they become sensitive and demand their respect. A language is a significant form of expression and fundamental social aspect. Through it, we spread values, perspectives, and beliefs regarding various social aspects (Lauring & Klitmøller, 2017). Therefore, our language must reflect crucial societal attributes such as equality, equity, and respect. The way an individual speak must reflect their personality and the relationships they establish with other people.
References
Bottcher, K., & Lopatta, K. (2018). Gender-Sensitive Language in German Annual Reports. J. Mgmt. & Sustainability , 8 , 1.
Lauring, J., & Klitmøller, A. (2017). Inclusive language use in multicultural business organizations: The effect on creativity and performance. International Journal of Business Communication , 54 (3), 306-324.
Using Inclusive Language: Guidelines and Examples https://online.rider.edu/online-bachelors-degrees/liberal-studies/guide-to-using-inclusive-language/#:~:text=Inclusive%20language%20is%20defined%20as,or%20underprivileged%20groups%2C%20such%20as
