Language DeCoded: Canadian Inclusive Language Glossary
Words Matter
Language can largely influence us in three ways:
The words that we use open up a world of possibility and opportunity, one that allows us to express, share, and educate. Like many other things, language evolves over time, but sometimes this fluidity can also lead to miscommunication. Inclusive language is the deliberate selection of vocabulary that avoid the explicit or implicit exclusion of particular groups, and avoid the use of false generic terms.
Language Decoded is a project that is meant to make individuals think before they speak. It is an inclusive language glossary that we hope all can learn from.
- It reveals our unconscious biases.
- It makes us internalize harmful biases.
- It stigmatizes already marginalized people.
The words that we use open up a world of possibility and opportunity, one that allows us to express, share, and educate. Like many other things, language evolves over time, but sometimes this fluidity can also lead to miscommunication. Inclusive language is the deliberate selection of vocabulary that avoid the explicit or implicit exclusion of particular groups, and avoid the use of false generic terms.
Language Decoded is a project that is meant to make individuals think before they speak. It is an inclusive language glossary that we hope all can learn from.
The app
This app is intended to empower anyone who reads it. It symbolizes the stories of all of the people, experiences, and perspectives that exist, and encourages us to be more mindful of how we choose to convey ourselves. By opening up to new ways of understanding the world,
we become strengthened through unity. Adopting an inclusive vocabulary promotes others to accept, embrace, and celebrate our differences, and acts as a catalyst for more meaningful changes to take place.
This tool was envisioned to be used as a guide that provides valuable history and context, and was not produced to shame, belittle, or otherwise dictate one’s self-expression. Due to its ever-changing nature, language selection will rarely be a black or white issue. However, we are certain that with the right awareness, intentions, and alternatives, that we can all engage in discussions that treat others with respect and dignity. While the knowledge contained within this glossary encompasses many topics, we also recognize that there may be additional words or phrases missing from our list. Please use this as a prompt for further discussion within your own lives about the intricate and multifaceted power of language, and how we can all work together to generate positive change.
This project was started by Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation with a collaborative approach. We worked with a group of diverse organizations and individuals that share a passion for inclusion and justice. We wanted to develop a resource that reflects the growth of our society and represents all of our unique community members. Words have the ability to shape how we see the world and each other, therefore it is important to create conversations everyone feels welcome to be a part of.
we become strengthened through unity. Adopting an inclusive vocabulary promotes others to accept, embrace, and celebrate our differences, and acts as a catalyst for more meaningful changes to take place.
This tool was envisioned to be used as a guide that provides valuable history and context, and was not produced to shame, belittle, or otherwise dictate one’s self-expression. Due to its ever-changing nature, language selection will rarely be a black or white issue. However, we are certain that with the right awareness, intentions, and alternatives, that we can all engage in discussions that treat others with respect and dignity. While the knowledge contained within this glossary encompasses many topics, we also recognize that there may be additional words or phrases missing from our list. Please use this as a prompt for further discussion within your own lives about the intricate and multifaceted power of language, and how we can all work together to generate positive change.
This project was started by Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation with a collaborative approach. We worked with a group of diverse organizations and individuals that share a passion for inclusion and justice. We wanted to develop a resource that reflects the growth of our society and represents all of our unique community members. Words have the ability to shape how we see the world and each other, therefore it is important to create conversations everyone feels welcome to be a part of.
