#Weeknotes 29 (6 Aug) – Inclusive language: Words and the imagery they conjure
I’ve been thinking about words and language quite a bit recently. I’m a firm believer that language shapes culture and in turn, shapes us and vice versa.
In the diversity movement’s guide for inclusive language, one of the primary rules is: Be thoughtful about the imagery you use. It talks about how words like black, dark, and blind are often used symbolically to express negative concepts which can be offensive to various groups and should be avoided when possible. Hubspot gave some great clear examples of Dos and Don’ts on this topic such as using “blocklist” or “allowlist” when we’ve been traditionally using the more familiar “blacklist” and “whitelist” terminologies. Many common industry terms have racist or otherwise problematic origins or implications. We need to recognise and challenge such terms and make sure we’re using inclusive language.
On the topic of words conjuring up imagery and unintentional negativity, I recall an example in the book I’m currently reading, Ina May’s guide to childbirth, where a midwife replaces the word “contraction” with “rush”. Her argument was why use a word that suggests tightness and hard muscles when successful labour will require expansion of the cervix? She has a master’s degree in English and was acutely aware of how language can condition one’s response to a physical/emotional/spiritual process such as labour. Makes sense.
I’ve been taking an online hypnobirthing and antenatal course with my partner in preparation for our baby due this December. I’m still grasping the fact I’m going to be a mom! Yikes. Anyway, one of the lessons was on the topic of words and how they can have an effect on how we feel. The lecturer mentions that people may often share their opinions and remarks that make you worry or anxious, such as “you look really big” if your belly is on the bigger side, or “I can’t believe you’re not showing yet” if you have a smaller bump. While it may all be unintentional, such remarks can make one question one’s ability of growing their baby, and are simply unnecessary. The lesson here is don’t let other people’s words affect how you feel about your situation and your ability to cope.
Now, what’s that got to do with inclusive language? The way I see it, the use of specific language brings about specific emotions. We need to recognise when negative emotions are triggered where they aren’t intended and learn to not reinforce them.
