“Attention boys and girls!” “Can I get you ladies something?” “I haven’t met him.”
Everyday language is often gendered without us realizing it. By shifting towards inclusive language, we can create a more supportive environment that respects the gender identities of all people.
It’s important to be mindful of your assumptions and consider gender-neutral ways of communicating the same phrases when you are talking about people or things.
Things to keep in mind to practice inclusive language:
- Inclusive language is used to include people of ALL genders and sexual orientations.
- Don’t assume someone’s gender identity by the way they look.
- Use gender-neutral language when addressing a general audience or people you don’t know.
- Recognizing an individual’s identity using the right language demonstrates support and respect.
- It is okay to make mistakes! Learn from them and aim to do better next time.
Pride Season in Canada (June to September) marks the events that take place to recognize the resilience and celebrate the talent and contributions of 2SLGBTQI+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Plus) communities. Pride Season is also a good time to recognize the importance of using inclusive language to create supportive and welcoming environments for all.
Practice using inclusive language:
|
INSTEAD OF SAYING |
SAY THIS |
|---|---|
|
“Attention boys and girls!” |
“Attention everyone!” |
|
“Can I get you ladies something?” |
“Can I get you all something?” |
|
“I haven’t met him.” |
“I haven’t met them.” |
Learn more about Inclusive and Affirming Language Tips from Egale Canada
- Egale (Canadian) Resources for 2SLGBTQI people & communities, service providers, schools, and companies (French and English)
- Gender Identity and Expression – What Teachers Can Do (Alberta Health Services)
- Translating Gender Inclusive Terms from English to French
- French Style Guide for Inclusive Writing
KIDS HELP PHONE
Call 1-800-668-6868, TEXT CONNECT to 686868 or Live Chat
24 hours/day, 7 days/week
Talk about anything with a trained, volunteer crisis responder. Texting service is free, no data plan or internet connection needed. All communication is confidential.
LGBT YouthLine
Call 1-800-268-9688, TEXT 647-694-4275 or Live Chat
Sunday to Friday 4pm to 9:30pm.
Confidential, non-judgemental and informed LGBTTQQ2SI peer support.
Inside Out Online Youth Groups (Windsor-Essex)
Ages 12-25
Our youth groups are a safe and affirming social and support group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, queer, questioning, intersex, 2-spirit, pansexual, asexual (2SLGBTQ+) and allied youth. They are primarily a social group with games, arts and crafts, and fun activities. We promote the health and wellbeing, and empowerment of 2SLGBTQ+ youth.
LGBTQ2S+ GROUPS & ORGANIZATIONS
This directory is designed to help you find resources on LGBTQ2S+ groups and organizations in Windsor-Essex. These listings were compiled by submissions from the community along with organizations that have supported the LGBTQ2S+ community in Windsor-Essex.