Inclusive language: Approaches for OT practice, research, and education

What is Inclusive Language?

Inclusive language respects every individual's humanity. Inclusive language focuses on using communication that reflects our strengths and avoids using words and expressions that are biased, discriminatory, or imply negative stereotypes. Often, language can unintentionally hurt people around us, decreasing trust and collaboration. Ultimately, this hurt may create barriers and deteriorate relationships in work and academic environments. Word choices can subtly or overtly perpetuate sexism, ageism, ableism, racism, heterosexism, religious bigotry, and other forms of bias (Madera et al., 2019). Inclusive language in letters of recommendation, job postings, course syllabi, policies, and other documents can help set a tone and culture of inclusion. Tools like Textio (https://textio.com) can review text for bias in recruiting and performance feedback.