Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.

Microaggressions: Why Inclusive Language is Important

Posted by [email protected] on $$DATE$$  /  Subscribe 0

Microaggressions: Why Inclusive Language is Important

by Pat Bennett, Member, NAWBO Cleveland DEI&B Committee

I don’t see color.
Can I touch your hair?
I didn’t mean it like that.
You speak English quite well.
I wouldn’t have guessed you were THAT old.
You’re so technically smart…for someone your age.
You’re not like other people in your race, disability, religion, age, etc.

These are everyday examples of microaggressions. People may target others with microaggressions because of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, class, disability, weight, or age, among other factors. Microaggressions are the everyday slights, insults, putdowns, invalidations, and offensive behaviors that people experience in daily interactions with generally well-intentioned individuals who may be unaware that they have engaged in demeaning ways. These can be verbal or nonverbal.

Microaggressions typically stem from our ingrained biases against people who are different from us, which often trace back to how we were raised. Many people are not even aware of their biases until they are directly confronted with them during a conversation or dispute. Communication that doesn’t speak to all intended audiences is not effective. Inclusive language acknowledges diversity and shows respect to everyone. Due to language’s fluid nature, words and their meanings can change quickly. That’s why applying inclusive language principles are more important than always keeping up with the right phrases. At its core, inclusive language is about human connection. It’s about the way we listen, hear, and interact to expand our horizons and make sure we work together and converse in a way that’s best for everyone.

Return to list