by Eriksen Translations
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of inclusive language and its importance. This awareness has led to fundamental changes in the ways organizations communicate. Language expresses organizational values. By embracing inclusive language, organizations show respect for people’s identities, resulting in a culture in which all individuals feel spoken to in a meaningful way. In this article, we look at inclusive language and offer recommendations for organizations that are striving to embrace larger, less homogenous audiences with their global communications.
Why Is Inclusive Language Important in Translation?
Translation plays a crucial role in creating a more inclusive society. It promotes cross-cultural understanding and makes information, resources, and services accessible to all people, regardless of their linguistic background. Equal access is particularly important for marginalized groups who may otherwise face discrimination and exclusion due to limited English proficiency.
Language can also be a major component of organizational approaches to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) initiatives. DEIA policies are established to foster workplace cultures that respect diversity and ensure all employees feel valued and welcome. By using inclusive language, organizations create a more respectful and accepting environment for their employees and customer base. Inclusive language also demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility and ethical business practices.
While language can be a powerful tool for promoting accessibility and inclusivity, it can also be used to perpetuate harmful biases and discrimination. The words we use, the tone we employ, and the stereotypes we reinforce through language can galvanize societal prejudices and marginalize certain individuals. This effect is exacerbated when biases are further disseminated across different languages. There are, however, decisions that can help make language inclusive and respectful to all, both in the source language and when translated.
What Is Inclusive Language?
While we might initially think of inclusive language in terms of gender, there are many other factors that contribute to inclusivity. These include age, religion, race, ethnicity, cultural identity, ability, socioeconomic status, marital status, immigration status, faith, and sexual orientation. Traditionally, language speaks to and for the people in the majority – not the minority – and as such, language can contribute to sexism, ableism, ageism, heterosexism, classism, religious bigotry, and other biases. Inclusive language seeks to recognize the minority.
