Language is a funny thing. It is how we share complex ideas and intricate descriptions of life around us. It is how we share knock-knock jokes, and it is how we share the most mind bogglingly complex theories. However, language is also a sneaky little beast that can, without even trying, make people feel like outsiders.
With the power to both uplift and marginalize, the language we use matters. Language is more than a tool for communication; it is a powerful force that can shape our individual experiences and connections within our communities and influence societal norms.
Think of it like this: Everyone wants to feel seen, heard and respected. Using language that includes everyone, rather than excluding certain groups, is like throwing a welcome mat out for the whole world. It’s about recognizing that we’re all different, and we’re all in this together.
The Power of Language
Words carry a lot of weight and choosing them wisely is more than just being polite, it is essential for moving towards a more inclusive and equitable society. Language can act as a mirror, reflecting society’s values. This means that being intentional, and critically rethinking the words we use, can lead to broad, positive, societal transformations.
Rethinking language means embracing and acknowledging how power dynamics can be harmful, like being mindful of terms that can perpetuate stereotypes or exclude individuals and groups. Rethinking language is also about creating environments where people can feel free and safe to live authentically. Using inclusive language moves the needle towards greater equity by ensuring everyone feels seen, heard and respected, regardless of their background or identities.
In public spaces like parks and recreation, the use of inclusive language can foster a sense of validation, respect and safety among community members. The language we use, both individually and collectively, signals what we value. We might be unaware that certain words, and how we use them, can be harmful and alienate members of our communities.
For example, a lot of the language we use has an implicit bias toward “male-as-norm” or “gender binary-as-norm.” Greetings like “Hi guys,” and “Hello ladies and gentlemen,” lean toward the male default and gendered assumptions which can alienate and outright erase individuals who are not male or who are non-binary. Rethinking our language and using more gender-neutral greetings like “Hi everyone,” or “Hello team,” acknowledges the gender diversity in our communities and can foster a sense of belonging, respect and safety. You can even have some fun with it. I love a good ol’ “Good afternoon, Earthlings.” And, much to the dismay of my pre-teen nibling (a gender-neutral term that can be used to refer to a child of a sibling, such as a niece or nephew) who obviously knows more about cool lingo than I do, I have been known to greet a room by saying “What’s good, peep-a-doodles?”
There are many other forms of biases in our language that can perpetuate harmful stereotypes or invalidate someone’s existence. See the table below for some examples.
Instead of |
Why it's problematic |
Try to substitute with |
| "That's so lame." | Phrases like this communicate a negative slight or insult about someone’s disability. | “That’s unfortunate.” |
| "Listen to the peanut gallery." | The term “peanut gallery” has classist and racist overtones and was often used to refer to “cheap seats” occupied by Black people in segregated theaters. | “Listen to those jokesters.” |
| "They are elderly." | Referring to an older person as elderly ignores individuality in both experiences and capability. | “They are an older adult.” |
Roadmaps to Communication
The fundamental purpose of inclusive language is to create a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all. NRPA has taken significant steps towards fostering inclusivity and greater equity through language with the Equity Language Guide. The first edition of this guide was released in 2021 to help develop common language around diversity, equity and inclusion among park and recreation professionals.
Equity language guides are like a roadmap to respectful communication. They help us see the world through different lenses and understand how words can be harmful and how they can be healing. They are a medium for recognizing the diverse experiences of people while also acknowledging the deleterious effects that power differential and dynamics can have on society. They are a tool for recognizing, with dignity, the humanity of every person.
Some critics may argue that equity language guides are a symptom of a weakened belief in material forms of progress, which is a false dichotomy. Pursuing inclusive language does not remove or lower it in rank with respect to tangible actions concerning social justice. Rather, it supplements them by providing a conducive atmosphere for such actions to happen effectively. Equity language guides prioritize responding to community voices calling for language that better represents their experiences and identities. Learning and using inclusive language is one of the major steps toward a society that not only recognizes but also actively tries to amend historical and ongoing inequalities.
At NRPA, we recognize the fluidity of language, and how impactful making thoughtful word choices can be in creating a more inclusive environment. We are excited to announce the release of the second edition of the NRPA Equity Language Guide. The revised guide provides an expanded glossary of terms, an updated resource list, general writing advice and tips on how to best use the guide. It includes content from leading language guides, numerous organizations, associations, researchers and more who are at the forefront of bridging gaps in equity through language.
We also know that language is not static. Language is as fickle as fashion — always changing, sometimes for the better. In fact, by the time you finish reading this, there might be a whole new set of words we should be using (or avoiding) — we hope not, but that is simply how quickly language can change.
NRPA’s Equity Language Guide is meant to reflect terminology most applicable to parks and recreation and related professions, with the understanding that the glossary of terms is not exhaustive. As you go through the guide, keep in mind that there is not always agreement, even amongst experts, on which word choices are best. This guide is our best effort to be as inclusive as possible based on available, contemporary research.
The Final Word… Okay, Words.
When we rethink the language we use, including which words may be more appropriate than others in certain situations, we can bolster our values of diversity, equity and inclusion. The American Psychological Association (APA) states, “Language is powerful. It can enhance our empathy, clarity, and understanding of each other as complex individuals with intersectional and varied identities and experiences.” Inclusive language isn’t just about political correctness; it’s about something much bigger than that. It’s about creating a world where everyone feels like they belong. It’s about challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers. It’s about the necessary perspective transformation for social change.
As creators of community, park and recreation professionals are uniquely positioned to create environments of respect while celebrating the beautiful diversity of humanity in all its forms by using inclusive and welcoming language. At NRPA, we hope the revised Equity Language Guide will inspire more inclusive communication throughout the park and recreation profession and will be a catalyst for creating communities where everyone feels welcome to show up authentically and participate as their true selves.
Remember, equity work is not easy, and it takes practice — it takes patience. In fact, it can be like trying to untangle a ball of yarn with cats around — chaotic, messy, and you might end up with more knots than you started with. But every pulled thread brings us closer to a more beautiful, inclusive tapestry.
We encourage you to download the guide and take your time reviewing each section. Pay special attention to the tips for using the guide and writing in general. Remember, change is a process. I know that change can be as welcome as a Monday morning alarm, but it is also the stubborn cousin of progress. So, take your time — the intention is for you to start thinking about the words you use, hear and see. Find a few words or phrases that you have questions about, and then start to dig a little deeper, perhaps with a colleague or friend, who can commit to doing the work with you.
Tiff Cunin (they/them), is NRPA’s Senior Education Manager for DEI.