Writing more inclusively and diversively is not only a matter of social justice, but also a way to enrich your content, engage your audience, and avoid stereotypes and biases. In this article, you will learn some effective ways to write more inclusively and diversely, such as:
Inclusive language is language that respects and acknowledges the diversity of people's identities, experiences, and perspectives. It avoids terms that exclude, marginalize, or discriminate against certain groups or individuals. For example, instead of using gendered nouns or pronouns, you can use gender-neutral or plural alternatives, such as "they", "people", or "everyone". Instead of using labels or categories that assume or imply a norm, you can use descriptive or specific terms, such as "people with disabilities" instead of "the disabled". Instead of using euphemisms or outdated terms that may be offensive or inaccurate, you can use respectful and current terms, such as "Indigenous" instead of "Indian".
Writing inclusively and diversely is an art, much like painting a vivid landscape. It's about creating a canvas where every stroke represents a different hue of human experience. Imagine your words as colors, blending together to form a picture that resonates with everyone. You're not just telling a story; you're weaving a tapestry of diverse threads. Each character, each narrative twist, is a chance to reflect the rich variety of our world. It's about seeing through someone else's eyes, walking in their shoes, and then sharing that journey with your readers. So, paint with a broad palette, be curious and respectful, and most importantly, remember that every word you write is a step towards a world where everyone feels seen and heard.
Senior Scientific Writer @ Sanofi || PhD in Bioinspired Inorganic Chemistry
Writing is a way to connect with people, to pass on information to people and care must be given to make it inclusive in nature. Here are a few points to consider: 1. Use gender neutral pronouns (they, their, them) wherever possible. 2. Understand the difference between gender (social) and sex (biological). 3. Avoid specifying ethnicity/nationality of the characters, if not necessary. When you ought to use those, remember to show due respect. For example, "the experiment involved 30 participants from India" is more acceptable than "30 Indian subjects were included in the experiment". 4. Reflect inclusivity in the illustrations/figures as well.
Inclusive writing embraces diverse perspectives by avoiding stereotypes, using respectful language, and portraying characters authentically. Integrate various cultures, backgrounds, genders, and identities to enrich narratives. Seek insights from sensitivity readers for cultural accuracy. Commit to inclusivity not just in content, but in amplifying diverse voices, creating a more authentic reflection of our beautifully varied world.
Writing inclusively is the result of a combination of empathy and awareness. Start with research. Understand the gamut that "inclusivity" comprises, and make a note of the gaps in representation that you recognise in your writing. Further, reach out to individuals or groups that represent/address these gaps. Spend time educating yourself about the segments you tend to overlook. Lastly, exercise empathy. The above education will contribute to this organically, but it's important to also consciously work towards being more mindful and intentional when it comes to your communication with and about various subjects and segments.
Keep an eye on the words and phrases you employ from the area, and take caution when making cultural allusions. Provide only pertinent details; only describe traits as required. Refrain from stating traits pointlessly, but when in doubt, be precise and unambiguous. Eliminate any inappropriate wording. Make a list of terms that you believe could offend or exclude people, and try not to use them. Carefully describe your characters. Be subtle but explicit in your description of varied characters, emphasizing their distinct traits and life experiences. With these pointers, I hope you can write with more inclusivity and diversity!
Diverse voices and perspectives are those that reflect the variety and complexity of human experiences, cultures, and backgrounds. They challenge the dominant or mainstream narratives and offer alternative or marginalized viewpoints. To represent diverse voices and perspectives, you can do some research and seek out sources that are credible, authentic, and relevant to your topic. You can also quote, cite, or acknowledge the contributions of people from different groups or backgrounds, especially those who are often underrepresented or overlooked in your field or genre. You can also use examples, stories, or scenarios that illustrate the diversity of your audience or your subject matter.
Yeah definitely, the voices of people with disability are already aren't heard enough, but as a young adult with a disability, I often feel like I don't get a voice in the world. I also feel like other (often older) disability advocates often struggle to factor in the viewpoints of young people. I have reached out to many disability advocates, and I feel like I face a fair bit of unconscious bias from them because I am young.
Diversity or inclusion in writing comes only after being consciously inclusive & diverse in your thoughts. And it's a road requiring constant improvements!
Stereotypes and biases are generalizations or assumptions that are based on incomplete or inaccurate information, often influenced by personal or cultural preferences, prejudices, or expectations. They can lead to errors, misunderstandings, or harm, especially when they affect how you portray or treat people from different groups or backgrounds. To avoid stereotypes and biases, you can check your facts and sources for accuracy and reliability. You can also examine your own assumptions and beliefs and question whether they are based on evidence or opinion. You can also seek feedback from people who have different perspectives or experiences than you and listen to their suggestions or criticisms.
This can be hard to do given most of these are unconscious, but yes, definitely trying to avoid these as much as possible is very important to better the way you approach someone with a disability
I believe that simply being mindful of checking correct terminology in the first instant is a great first step. Getting your work peer reviewed if possible for feedback pre posting and also seeking out well referenced similar information on topics can go a long way in ensuring you are offering the most up to date and correct information. Be ready to accept feedback and criticism. Be willing to use that to make a better and More balanced article, post or resource.
Clear and accessible language is language that is easy to understand and follow for a wide range of readers, regardless of their level of education, literacy, or language proficiency. It avoids jargon, slang, or idioms that may be unfamiliar or confusing to some readers. It also uses simple and direct sentences, active voice, and transitions to create a logical and coherent flow. To use clear and accessible language, you can use common and concrete words that convey your meaning precisely and concisely. You can also use headings, subheadings, lists, or other visual aids to organize your content and highlight your main points. You can also proofread and edit your content for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
A clear and concise language is an effective tool for communication especially when you are a lawyer. Whether it is communication with clients, judges or peers the writing and the oral communication is a crucial piece of an effective bridge between parties. Needless to say clarity of thought can only be conveyed with accessible language.
Your audience and purpose are the factors that determine who you are writing for and why you are writing. They influence your tone, style, and content choices. To adapt to your audience and purpose, you can identify and analyze your target readers, such as their demographics, interests, needs, and expectations. You can also define and clarify your writing goals, such as what you want to inform, persuade, or entertain your readers. You can also tailor your content to suit your audience and purpose, such as using appropriate vocabulary, tone, and format.
This is something that I often struggle with doing. I sometimes use too complex language for my audience, and as a writer, it can be really hard to simplify what I have written.
Your audience will relate with you when you write simple. As someone famous once said apply the principle of KISS…Keep it simple stupid!
Writing more inclusively and diversely is an ongoing process that requires constant learning and improving. You can always find new ways to expand your knowledge, broaden your perspective, and refine your skills. To keep learning and improving, you can read and study diverse and inclusive texts, such as books, articles, blogs, or podcasts that cover different topics, genres, and styles. You can also seek and apply feedback from different sources, such as peers, mentors, or experts, who can offer you constructive and honest advice. You can also practice and experiment with different techniques, methods, or tools that can help you write more inclusively and diversely.
To bring diversity to your writing it is important that you read various authors. It can be a self help book, fiction, non-fiction or even an engaging article in a newspaper. Soak in everything with the perspective to improve and you will see the difference yourself.
Read more. Observe more. Live more. Do anything you like that helps broaden your perspectives. Once you consider different POVs and step into others' shoes (not literally, I mean!) even for a brief while, your writing would reflect that. Effortlessly!