Inclusive writing in nonfiction and fictionīefore outlining some of the specific areas and elements of inclusive language, it’s worth noting that different forms of writing require different forms of inclusivity. Once an author understands this, they can use their creativity and craft to write with much greater intention and openness. For example, using words like “we” and “our” in one’s writing is sometimes necessary and often harmless, but not all readers will have the same experience and, depending on the context, might feel unacknowledged or misunderstood when authors write “we” without reflecting on who's part of that imagined group.Įssentially, the mission of inclusive writing is to a) identify where one’s natural writing style inadvertently includes offensive terms, perpetuates stereotypes, and generally “others” potential readers - and then b) work to eliminate these issues. However, truly inclusive writing should go even deeper than this, also considering the less obvious, more implicit boundaries between groups other than outright slurs and stereotypes. These elements have been able to embed themselves into our language largely because the groups in question have traditionally had little power.Ī big part of inclusive writing is simply being conscious of such outdated terms and avoiding them (which is why we’ll go over some of the most common problem phrases below!). Historically speaking, it’s been easy for certain terms and ideas to become ingrained that seem innocuous but are actually insensitive or offensive to these marginalized groups.
Why is writing with inclusive language important? Note that this article will contain some stereotypes, slurs, and derogatory terms to provide context on how language usage has changed over time. The topic of inclusive writing is sticky and complex, but in this post, we’ll try to take a nuanced look at some of the less-than-inclusive terms and writing habits that authors may have acquired over the years - and provide some simple tweaks that can help you welcome a wider range of readers into the wonderful world of your writing. This includes (but is not limited to) BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and disabled people. To clarify, the conversation around inclusive writing focuses on marginalized communities: folks who are sidelined or persecuted in mainstream society and culture, often preceded by a history of oppression. In other words: they haven’t written inclusively about scouting. In addition, the book is based on stereotypes and assumptions! You don't see yourself in the writing and it seems that the author doesn’t actually care about scouting or people who scout. Though you were excited to read it, you quickly realize the author has gotten a lot wrong: from terminology to the portrayal of the main character, none of it matches up with your experience. Imagine you’re a devoted scout leader who’s just picked up a book by your favorite author - a promising thriller titled The Scoutmaster.
When writing is not inclusive, it can make people of these groups feel excluded, like the writing isn’t for them - and may even cause them to stop consuming that work entirely.
Context writing examples tv#
Inclusive language is used whenever anything (books, magazines, films, TV shows) is written to accurately reflect and respect the experiences of specific communities.
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