At Northreach Society, we are dedicated to fostering a community that respects and uplifts every individual, recognizing the profound impact language has on achieving this goal. Guided by the principles set forth by the Linguistic Society of America, we strive to use inclusive language that acknowledges diversity, conveys respect to all people, is sensitive to differences, and promotes equal opportunities.
Understanding Inclusive Language
Inclusive language helps avoid the marginalization of people, misrepresentation, or the perpetuation of stereotypes. It is not just about our intentions but the effects our words have. For instance, being mindful about terms that oversimplify or inaccurately represent people helps prevent reinforcing harmful stereotypes. This includes using terms that individuals and communities prefer, which might be “deaf” over “hearing impaired” or “disabled person” over “person with disabilities.”
How Language Shapes Our World
Language influences how we view and interact with each other. For example, describing someone as an “abuser” rather than a person who has a substance use disorder can affect how they are treated, even by trained professionals. Such terms can inadvertently promote stigma and make punitive responses more likely. This insight underlines the importance of describing individuals in a way that does not define them by their condition or circumstances.
Practical Tips for Compassionate Communication
- Be Specific and Avoid Judgments: Instead of labeling someone as an “alcoholic,” express concern with specific observations, like “I am concerned about your drinking.”
- Use Person-First Language: Always put the person before their condition to emphasize their humanity, such as “a person with a substance use disorder” instead of “an addict.”
- Choose Words Carefully in Recovery Contexts: Avoid terms like “clean” or “dirty” in discussing substance use. Opt for “not currently using” or “actively using” to describe someone’s relationship with substances.
- Educate Others: If you hear someone using stigmatizing language, consider it an opportunity for education. Discuss the power of words and how they can either perpetuate stigma or foster recovery and understanding.
Continuing the Conversation
Language evolves, and what may have been acceptable in the past might now be viewed as inappropriate or offensive. Staying open to change and adjusting our language accordingly is key to being truly inclusive and supportive. At Northreach Society, we continue to educate ourselves and our community about the power of words in order to create an environment that supports recovery and respects all individuals.
More Information on Reducing Stigma Through Language
- Health Canada’s Guide on Stigmatizing Language (https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/problematic-prescription-drug-use/opioids/stigma.html)
- BC’s Mental Health and Substance Use Services on Language (http://www.bcmhsus.ca/about/news-stories/stories/whats-in-a-word-how-language-can-destigmatize-substance-use)
- Linguistic Society of America’s Guidelines for Inclusive Language
- (https://www.linguisticsociety.org/resource/guidelines-inclusive-language)
By choosing our words thoughtfully, we can all contribute to a community that uplifts and supports its members, making a significant impact on how individuals are treated and perceived.