How can you use inclusive language to communicate your nonprofit's values?

1 Understand your audience

Before you write or speak, think about who your audience is and what their needs, preferences, and expectations are. Do some research on the demographics, cultures, and backgrounds of your audience, and use appropriate terms and pronouns to address them. For example, if you are communicating with people with disabilities, use person-first language (e.g., a person with a disability) or identity-first language (e.g., a disabled person), depending on their choice. Avoid using labels, slurs, or outdated terms that may be offensive or dehumanizing.

3 Be specific and accurate

When you communicate your nonprofit's values, mission, and vision, be specific and accurate about what you do, who you serve, and why you do it. Avoid using vague, general, or exaggerated terms that may mislead, confuse, or alienate your audience. For example, instead of saying "we help the poor", say "we provide food, shelter, and education to low-income families in rural areas". Instead of saying "we fight for justice", say "we advocate for human rights, democracy, and accountability in our country". Instead of saying "we make a difference", say "we create positive social change through our programs and partnerships".

5 Be respectful and inclusive of different cultures and languages

Culture and language are important aspects of people's identities and expressions. They reflect their values, beliefs, traditions, and histories. To be respectful and inclusive of different cultures and languages, avoid using terms, phrases, or images that may be culturally insensitive, inappropriate, or stereotypical. For example, avoid using terms like "third world", "developing countries", or "the Global South", which may imply inferiority or homogeneity. Use terms like "low-income countries", "emerging economies", or "the Global Majority", which are more accurate and respectful. Avoid using phrases like "the blind leading the blind", "a deaf ear", or "a lame excuse", which may be offensive or derogatory to people with disabilities. Use phrases like "the uninformed leading the uninformed", "a dismissive ear", or "a weak excuse", which are more neutral and respectful. Avoid using images that may portray people as exotic, helpless, or homogeneous. Use images that show people as diverse, empowered, and individual.

Using inclusive language is not only a matter of being polite or correct. It is a matter of being respectful, empathetic, and responsible. By using inclusive language, you can communicate your nonprofit's values, mission, and vision in a way that builds trust, rapport, and engagement with your audience, and that promotes a culture of belonging, equity, and social impact in your organization and in the world.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?