Inclusive Language

An example of inclusive language is where one aims to clarify the inclusion of all sexes or genders (gender-inclusive language). The need for inclusive language arises because masculine pronouns no longer communicate a generic sense of "anyone." Indeed, many people find such usage not only inaccurate but offensive. Gender-inclusive language aims at minimizing assumptions regarding the gender of human referents. As a matter of courtesy, search for inclusive or gender neutral alternatives. For example, avoid "man" or "men" when you mean "human being(s)," "humankind," or "people." For example, replace words such as chairman and stewardess with terms such as chairperson and flight attendant. Avoid distracting readers with either an offensive gender specific term or awkward inclusive phrases such as "him or her" or "she/he." Follow this link for a list of General Examples of Inclusive Language: http://honolulu.hawaii.edu/intranet/committees/FacDevCom/guidebk/teachtip/inclusiv.htm