For communication to be effective, it should speak to all audiences for which it is intended. Inclusive language acknowledges diversity, and conveys respect to all people. It is respectful of differences and promotes equitable opportunities.
We understand that language in today’s society is fluid, meanings and connotations of words can change rapidly, and we’re on this continuous journey of learning, together. USA Fencing is committed to developing and sustaining a dialogue about the ways in which we can uncover and understand the harm that language can cause.
The goal is to use more inclusive language that doesn't have biases, slang or discriminatory terms. We encourage members to utilize these common sets of guidelines and best practices to foster inclusive and safe places for everyone to enjoy the sport of fencing.
USA fencing defines inclusive language as any communication that proactively uses words, phrases and expressions that are empathetic and welcoming. This includes avoiding assumptions that may exclude people or cause harm. Inclusive language encompasses emails, text messages, imagery, marketing material, social media, websites, and other forms of communication. We encourage you to constantly reflect on the potential for personal biases to show up and create blindspots that limit inclusive experiences. You can check out our resource on implicit biases for additional details.
When leading a conversation, remember to consider the following:
Don’t let fear of making mistakes stop you from connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.
Also remember, it is important to respect people’s privacy. Allow people the space to share information about themselves if and when they feel comfortable doing so. If a person chooses to share their intimate personal life experiences, acknowledge their willingness to share and remember its all about creating connection. Be intentional with building a genuine connection. Be people-focused.
Download the Inclusive Language Activity worksheet.
Describe inclusive language by talking about how a person’s choice of language can sometimes make people uncomfortable, discriminate against certain individuals, or alternately, create a comfortable environment and promote respectful relationships and interactions.
Describe the Inclusive Language Worksheet activity:
What to say: “The following worksheet is a compilation of examples of and alternatives to gendered and discriminatory language. It is important to be aware of the language we use at the club/org and most importantly around youth.”
Hand out a copy of the Inclusive Language worksheet and a pen to each participant.
Have the participants complete the worksheet independently. Once everyone has completed the worksheet, come back together as a large group to discuss the answers.
Ask for volunteers to share their revised sentences and explanations for why a sentence or example is not inclusive. If they struggle to provide a correct answer, refer to the solutions in the answer key.
Describe the Building Awareness Around Language and Inclusive Communication activity:
What to say: “Next, we are going to focus on what it means to be aware of inclusive communication by thinking back to a time when you were insulted or hurt by another person.”
Lead the Building Awareness around Language and Inclusive Communication activity:
Begin the activity by asking participants to do some reflective writing in response to the following prompt: “Describe a time when you were insulted or hurt by another person and they brushed it off by saying something like ‘I didn’t mean it like that.’”
Ask a few volunteers to share their examples.
Facilitate a discussion by asking how participants reacted when others dismissed their feelings by saying they “didn’t mean it.”
Ask staff “What mattered to you most in the moment? How the other person may have intended the comment or how it affected you? What would you have liked the other person to think about before speaking?”
Adapted from the University of Minnesota and the Department of Defense’s Office of Family Policy, the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture under Award No. 2009-48667-05833.
American Psychological Association 2021 inclusive Language Guidelines