If your communications aren’t for everyone, they’re working against someone.
Language is power. It shapes culture, defines belonging, and either opens doors or closes them. In equity-driven organizations, messaging has to move beyond good intentions and into intentionality. Your inclusive messaging must be one that resonates.
Inclusive messaging isn’t a side task for the comms team, it’s a reflection of your organization’s values in action. Every word, image, and story sends a signal about who belongs and who’s being prioritized. That’s why inclusive language must be baked into your strategy, not sprinkled on top. It’s about shifting from reactive edits to proactive clarity, where your communications consistently affirm dignity, diversity, and shared humanity.
The Risk of Getting It Wrong
- Losing trust or credibility with core audiences
- Reinforcing harmful narratives
- Making people feel unseen or unwelcome
Better, More Inclusive Comms Start With:
- People-First Language: Prioritize individuals over conditions (e.g., “people experiencing homelessness” vs. “the homeless”).
- Representation That Reflects Reality: Showcase diverse voices, perspectives, and visuals in all content.
- Avoiding Euphemisms or “Savior” Narratives: Empowerment doesn’t mean paternalism.
- Honest Reviews and Feedback: Use inclusive language checklists. Invite external readers to flag blind spots.
Being inclusive isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being open, responsive, and thoughtful.
Quick Exercise
Audit your last five blog posts or campaign emails. Who’s represented? Whose voice is missing?
When people see themselves in your message, they’re more likely to trust, engage, and stay.
Chris
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