Inclusive language — gender, disability, race
Lesson 2 of 3 in Code-Switching — Formal, Informal & Inclusive Register · 20 minutes
Canadian professional contexts increasingly expect inclusive language — gender-neutral, disability-respectful, race-aware. This lesson covers what inclusive language is and why it matters.
What you'll learn
- Use gender-neutral and inclusive pronouns
- Apply person-first language for disability
- Avoid loaded racial and ethnic language
- Update outdated terms to current usage
From the lesson
Inclusive language has shifted significantly in Canadian professional contexts over the past decade. What was acceptable in 2015 may signal cultural unawareness in 2026. This isn't about being 'politically correct' — it's about communicating professionally in current Canadian workplaces. This lesson covers the patterns.
1. Gender-inclusive language
Standard updates from older usage:
• 'Mailman' → 'mail carrier.' • 'Policeman' → 'police officer.' • 'Chairman' → 'chair' or 'chairperson.' • 'Stewardess' → 'flight attendant.' • 'Salesman' → 'salesperson' or 'sales rep.' • 'Foreman' → 'foreperson' or 'lead.'
Default to neutral when role is general:
• 'When the user logs in, they need to enter their…