GE 1: Purposive Communication, Chapter 1, Lesson 3 "CULTURALLY SENSITIVE AND BIAS-FREE LANGUAGE"

Summary

In this lesson, the importance of using culturally sensitive and bias-free language is explored, focusing on five key areas: race and ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation, social class, age, and disabilities. The script emphasizes how language can either reinforce harmful stereotypes or promote inclusivity. It provides examples of terms to avoid and offers alternative, respectful language choices. The overall goal is to foster understanding and respect, ensuring that communication remains free from discrimination and bias. By being mindful of language, writers and speakers can create more inclusive and harmonious interactions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Be aware of cultural sensitivity when writing or speaking, as it helps to avoid reinforcing stereotypes and biases.
• 😀 Language should reflect respect for cultural differences and avoid assigning positive or negative values based on group identities.
• 😀 Racism refers to discrimination against individuals of different races. It's important to avoid reinforcing racial stereotypes in language.
• 😀 Be mindful of the terms used to describe ethnic and racial groups. Always refer to people by the terminology they prefer.
• 😀 Gender sensitivity is key. Avoid gendered language and use gender-neutral terms like 'chairperson' instead of 'chairman' and 'flight attendant' instead of 'stewardess'.
• 😀 Social class bias can be avoided by using more respectful terms like 'upper class' instead of 'owning class' and 'informal settlers' instead of 'squatters'.
• 😀 Ageism, or discrimination based on age, can be mitigated by avoiding phrases that imply older people are less capable, like 'old persons' versus 'senior citizens'.
• 😀 When referring to people with disabilities, focus on the individual rather than their condition, e.g., 'person with mental retardation' rather than 'retard'.
• 😀 Use terms that focus on the person first, such as 'person with vision impairment' instead of 'blind person', to avoid stigmatization.
• 😀 In writing, avoid using terms like 'girls' or 'boys' for adults. Use 'women' and 'men' for individuals 18 years and older to ensure accuracy and respect.

Q & A

What does culturally sensitive language mean?

Culturally sensitive language means being aware of and respecting the cultural differences and similarities between people, ensuring that the language used does not assign a positive or negative value to these differences.

Why is it important to stay updated with current terminologies used by racial and ethnic groups?

Language evolves, and staying updated with the current terminology ensures that we communicate respectfully and avoid using outdated or inappropriate terms that may offend or misrepresent certain groups.

How can you avoid reinforcing stereotypes when writing about race and ethnicity?

Avoid making generalizations that imply all people of a certain race possess the same traits or skills. For example, avoid saying 'Naturally, the Asian students want the math contest' as it reinforces a stereotype about Asians being naturally good at math.

What is sexism, and how can it be avoided in language?

Sexism is prejudice or discrimination based on gender. It can be avoided by using gender-neutral terms such as 'chairperson' instead of 'chairman' and 'flight attendant' instead of 'stewardess.'

What is classism, and how should we address social class in language?

Classism is discrimination based on a person's social class. It can be addressed by using more sensitive terms, such as referring to the 'less privileged' instead of the 'underclass' and 'informal settlers' instead of 'squatters.'

Why is it important to be sensitive when referring to people with disabilities?

Being sensitive when referring to people with disabilities shows respect for their humanity and abilities, not reducing them to their condition. It’s better to say 'people with vision impairments' instead of 'the blind.'

What should we avoid when referring to older people?

Avoid using terms that imply older individuals are less capable, such as 'older persons.' Instead, use 'senior citizens' or 'older adults,' which are more respectful and neutral.

What is ageism, and how can we avoid it in language?

Ageism is discrimination based on age, often implying that older people are less capable. It can be avoided by using respectful terms, such as 'senior citizens' or 'older adults,' and refraining from phrases that emphasize someone's age negatively.

How should gender be addressed when writing about individuals over 18?

Individuals over 18 should be referred to as 'women' and 'men' rather than 'girls' and 'boys,' as these latter terms refer to those who are under 18 years old.

What is the importance of avoiding bias and stereotypes in communication?

Avoiding bias and stereotypes in communication is crucial because these can create misunderstandings and conflict. Bias can hinder effective communication, making it harder to maintain harmonious relationships and respect between different groups.