How Do I…Shifting Language

This resource offers practical guidance on adopting inclusive language to foster respectful, culturally sensitive, and equitable communication in professional and everyday settings.

"Open the kimono" → "Share transparently" or "Provide full disclosure."

Why: The phrase "open the kimono" trivializes Japanese cultural attire and can come across as exoticizing or offensive. Using neutral alternatives maintains professionalism and cultural respect.

"Master/slave" → "Primary/secondary" or "Leader/follower."

Why: This terminology invokes painful histories of slavery, especially for Black communities, and can cause discomfort. Modern terms achieve clarity without perpetuating harmful connotations.

"Low man on the totem pole" → "Lowest priority" or "Entry-level role."

Why: Totem poles have significant cultural and spiritual importance for Indigenous peoples. This phrase misrepresents their meaning and perpetuates stereotypes.

"Tribe" → "Team," "Community," or "Circle."

Why: The word "tribe" has deep historical and cultural ties to Indigenous peoples and using it casually can diminish its significance or appropriate it for unrelated purposes.

"Grandfathered in" → "Legacy status" or "Exempt under previous rules."

Why: This term originated from discriminatory practices in voting laws, where white men were exempt from literacy tests if their ancestors had voting rights. Neutral alternatives avoid perpetuating this history.

Gendered Language

"Guys" → "Folks," "Everyone," or "Team."

Why: Referring to a mixed-gender group as "guys" reinforces male as the default. Gender-neutral terms make everyone feel included.

"Chairman" → "Chair," "Chairperson," or "Leader."

Why: Gendered titles exclude non-male leaders. Gender-neutral terms reflect the diversity of individuals in leadership roles.

"Manpower" → "Workforce," "Team," or "Personnel."

Why: Gendered language like "manpower" excludes non-male workers. Neutral language is more inclusive of all team members.

"Manning the station" → "Staffing the station" or "Covering the station."

Why: Similarly, this phrase assumes "man" as the default, which excludes women and nonbinary individuals.

Ability-Inclusive Language

"Crazy" or "Insane" → "Wild," "Unbelievable," or "Unexpected."

Why: Words like "crazy" and "insane" perpetuate stigma around mental health conditions. Neutral words remove judgment.

"Blind spot" → "Unseen area" or "Overlooked detail."

Why: Using "blind" metaphorically can unintentionally devalue blindness as a disability. Alternative language avoids unnecessary ableism.

"Tone deaf" → "Unaware" or "Insensitive."

Why: Equating lack of sensitivity with deafness diminishes the experiences of people with hearing disabilities.

"Crippled" (e.g., "crippled system") → "Severely limited" or "Hampered."

Why: Using "crippled" metaphorically can be offensive to people with disabilities. Neutral terms avoid unnecessary harm.

Culturally Sensitive Language

"Spirit animal" → "Role model," "Inspiration," or "Archetype."

Why: Spirit animals hold sacred significance in many Indigenous cultures. Using the term casually appropriates this spiritual concept.

"Powwow" → "Meeting," "Huddle," or "Brainstorm session."

Why: Powwows are ceremonial gatherings in Indigenous cultures. Replacing it with neutral terms respects its cultural importance.

Why This Matters

Language shapes culture and influences how people feel included or excluded. Using inclusive language demonstrates respect, fosters psychological safety, and helps dismantle stereotypes or biases. By shifting to thoughtful alternatives, we build spaces where everyone can feel valued and respected.

Download our accompanying Pocket Guide PDF for quick, on-the-go tips on using inclusive language and promoting accessibility in your daily communications.