Language & Inclusive Communication
Language has the power to shape perception, reinforce systems of oppression, or dismantle them. How we speak and write (online and offline) can either invite belonging or uphold exclusion. This page is designed to help you communicate in ways that are inclusive, affirming, and rooted in respect.
The way we use language is inherently subjective and often contentious, especially in discussions about social issues.
The name of this website, for example, brings up complex discussions around the definition of "privilege" and what it means to do "good."
Language not only expresses our sentiments and perspectives but also shapes our understanding of the world, with serious consequences if we use it carelessly.
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As society evolves through constructive debates on ethics and morality, many destructive elements remain deeply embedded in our subconscious. We live within a racially structured hierarchy designed to preserve the power of the elite.
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Why Inclusive Language Matters
Terms like "Third World," "First World," and the notion of "saving" communities from injustice reveal how language upholds these systems.​
These terms are socially constructed to separate and label groups, creating divisive rhetoric that elevates one over another. Over time, such labels become ingrained in our thinking, reinforcing colonial ideologies.
When we use these terms in conversations about marginalised groups, we perpetuate harmful narratives that maintain divisions rather than promote understanding.
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Language reflects our values and impacts real people.
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Inclusive communication actively avoids marginalising individuals based on race, gender, disability, sexuality, or class.
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It's not about being "politically correct", it's about being compassionate, accurate, and accountable.
Key Principles of Inclusive Communication
Use Person-Centered Language
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Person-first vs. identity-first language. Many disability communities differ, some prefer “disabled person,” while others prefer “person with a disability.”
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Follow individual preferences​ ​when known. There is no one-size-fits-all.
Respect Pronouns &
Gender Identities
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Don’t assume pronouns. Ask or use gender-neutral terms (they/them).
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Use terms like: "partner" instead of "boyfriend/girlfriend," or "folks" instead of "guys"
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Use “parent”, “caregiver”, or “guardian” rather than assuming “mum” or “dad
Avoid Ableist Language
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Ableist language reinforces stereotypes and stigmas about disability, neurodivergence, and mental health. It’s often so normalised that we don’t even realise the harm it causes.
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Avoid medicalising or pathologising difference (e.g., saying something is "so ADHD" to describe being distracted, or "OCD" to describe someone who is "detail-oriented" or "particular").
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Don’t use disability metaphors to describe inconvenience or surprise.
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Refrain from using terms like “lazy,” “gross,” “let yourself go”. Challenge assumptions about health, beauty, or value being tied to body size.
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Common phrases to rethink:
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"Crazy," "insane," "lame," "blind to," "psycho". Alternatives: "unexpected," "confusing," "overwhelming," "ignored," "facing challenges"
Avoid Racial Microaggressions & Stereotypes
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Be mindful of cultural appropriation, tokenism, and racialised language (e.g., "urban," "ethnic", "exotic")
Challenge Colonial Framing in Global Contexts
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Avoid terms like “Third World,” “developing,” or “saving” a community
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Consider the systemic roots of injustice, not just the symptoms
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Use language that centers agency and complexity, not pity or superiority
Words to Use Thoughtfully
Instead of:
Replace With:
Mankind
Humankind, people
Why Person-Centered or
System-Aware Language?
Using language like "person facing homelessness" or "person with complex needs" humanises individuals and shifts the focus away from blame or deficit. It places responsibility on broken systems rather than personal failure, encouraging compassion and systemic accountability.
This reframing challenges dominant narratives and promotes dignity, agency, and equity.