We learn from our mistakes

The power of words: how to foster inclusion through language

Inclusive communication is fundamental to creating fair and respectful working environments, but it requires care in finding expressions that adequately represent each person without falling into stereotypes or discrimination

by Alberto Varriale*

25 September 2024

3' min read

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Umberto Galimberti, one of the most authoritative voices in contemporary philosophy. During our conversation, I particularly appreciated his ability to express complex concepts with a perfect balance between elegance and clarity. We talked about the importance of educating young people about feelings, the evolution of thought and, above all, the worrying trend towards the impoverishment of language.

The latter theme, in particular, continued to echo in my thoughts in the following days, leading me to reflect on the importance of inclusive language in business and social discussions. My reasoning stemmed from the fact that a vocabulary reduced to the bare minimum also risks impoverishing our thinking, consequently limiting our ability to elaborate complex ideas. Even more alarming is the risk that simplified and stereotyped language may feed unconscious prejudices, hindering any form of inclusion, even at work.

Inclusive communication is not just a set of politically correct grammar rules; it is an approach that reflects a broader cultural change. It consists of the conscious use of words and expressions that do not exclude or discriminate on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, disability or other personal characteristics.

The importance of communication modes in the company

Modern companies increasingly aspire to create work environments that reflect principles of fairness and respect, and the way they communicate plays a substantial role in this process. However, the definition of guidelines for inclusive language requires special attention in finding expressions that can adequately represent each person in the company, without falling into stereotypes or discrimination. This search for harmony between different sensitivities and needs can be an arduous task, especially in a context where vocabulary tends to become impoverished and simplified, often to the detriment of expressive richness.

Words are not mere communication tools: they create and shape our reality. The expressions we choose influence our perception of ourselves and others, contributing to the creation of cultural patterns that can endure over time and, as a result, can act as bridges, facilitating deep connections and relationships based on mutual respect, or erect insurmountable barriers. Language can thus act asa tool of inclusion or exclusion, depending on how we use it.

In this regard, it must be emphasised that, despite the wealth of nuances and expressive possibilities of our language, finding the right balance between inclusiveness and spontaneity can be a task that is not always easy; it is in these cases that sensitivity towards those we address becomes essential. It is not a question of blaming, but of promoting greater awareness. Only in this way can we carefully select words, avoiding those that might offend or exclude. Educating ourselves and others to use inclusive language means not only avoiding offensive terms, but also promoting expressions that value differences.

Diversity, an enriching challenge

In the complexity of human interactions, diversity represents a constant challenge that enriches our way of perceiving the world. The refusal to address this issue often reflects a deep fear of diversity that many of us harbour within ourselves. Paradoxically, this attitude fuels a defence of our identity through expressions and behaviour that reveal deep-seated resistance, both individual and cultural. Whenever we ignore diversity, we not only increase barriers between groups and individuals, but also reinforce our inner fears, perpetuating separation instead of promoting inclusion. Exploring these issues requires courage and an open mind.

If it is true that language determines the way we think and not the other way around, then a lexical variety can play an essential role in this.

Expanding our linguistic repertoire, e.g. through reading, can help us see our ideas not as absolute truths, but as constantly evolving possibilities. This awareness prevents us from slipping into linguistic automatisms that often nurture prejudice and discrimination, guiding us instead towards the adoption of expressions that promote integration and celebrate human diversity.

Promoting inclusive language is not just a matter of form, but a tangible commitment to building a better future, where words are not just sounds, but powerful tools for change.

*Partner of Newton Spa