How do you communicate inclusively?

* Points of attention that do not require much time/energy/money

  • Communicate gender-inclusively and avoid other biases (heteronormative,...) in your communication.
    • For example, when imparting dress code for a gala ball, simply say "gala attire" for everyone.
    • Avoid using gender-related address titles (e.g., Mr., Mrs.) unless a person has explicitly affirmed his/her/their title. Use a gender-neutral title or no title at all.
    • Say he/she/they instead of he/she when you need to list.
  • Be careful not to use stereotypes (both in your text and images).
    • Avoid generalizations such as "always," "everything," "everyone," unless you are sure it applies.
    • There are a few general things it's best to keep in mind. If a characteristic is not relevant in a particular context, don't mention it. If you do want to refer to a specific group of people, always check how this group/person names themselves. This may vary from person to person. In general, it is recommended not to reduce people to one characteristic. For example, say "people with a migrant background" instead of "migrant”. At the same time, some blind people want to be called "blind people," while others want to be called "people with visual impairment”.
    • You can use the UGent glossary as a guide, but it is always better to check for yourself which terms the community you are referring to uses yourself. After all, the glossary is not exhaustive, definitive or binding. Meanings change and new words pop up all the time. (https://www.ugent.be/nl/univgent/missie/diversiteit-en-inclusie/voor-de-ugent-community/inclusievecommunicatie/verklarende-woordenlijst)
    • Make sure no terms with negative connotations are used. You can also look at the lists from VRT (https://diversewoordenlijstvrt.wordpress.com/) or JaJa (https://jaja.be/nl/dossier-inclusief-taalgebruik/) for this. However, always remember that connotations evolve and the lists are never definitive.
    • Look for images featuring individuals with various backgrounds and characteristics.
    • Avoid reinforcing stereotypes when depicting people. For example, depict a person in a wheelchair actively, fully and independently, rather than passively. Or do not depict a man in a stereotypical male role.
  • Write and speak in plain language:
    • If you use acronyms, be sure to write down the meaning of each letter
    • Explain jargon or complex terms that people may not be familiar with
    • Provide summaries of texts and be concise.
  • Add your pronouns in emails, if you wish.
  • Carefully consider what language your event will go through/what language you will communicate in. If you only communicate in Dutch, you will not reach everyone. So ideally, always include an English translation in your communication. At the same time, not everyone speaks English equally well, and some sensitive topics are easier to deal with in your native language.

** Points of attention that are a bit more difficult

  • Give participants the option of requesting a sign language interpreter. (Note: contact this interpreter well in advance and ask until when you can cancel. You can find a suitable interpreter at tolkaanvraag.be, among other places).
  • Sometimes it may be necessary to use volunteers (for example, to welcome people, escort them to the event, scoop up food, etc.). Make sure they have clear, large-print name tags and encourage them to offer help verbally.