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Inclusive Language |
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Language that discriminates against people on the basis of their
sexuality is unacceptable. Sexuality is lived and experience in
many different ways. The considerable bias in society towards heterosexuality
fosters narrow definitions and limited possibilities for sexual
identities. The bias towards heterosexuality means that those with
sexual identities such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, intersexual and
transgender often experience discrimination in both direct and indirect
ways.
Non-discriminatory
portrayal of sexual identity
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Avoid derogatory labelling
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Language that refers to people's sexuality in derogatory terms
such as 'dyke', 'fag' and 'fairy' are unacceptable. Accepted
terms when referring to sexual identities are heterosexual,
lesbian, gay men and bisexual people. Transgender and intersexual
is preferred over transsexual.
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Note:
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Many of the guidelines concerning language and
disability also apply to language and sexuality. While many
terms for sexual identities have been 'reclaimed'; and are used
within the group to which the term refers, in most contexts
it is safest to avoid terms that have negative connotations
when referring to sexual identities.
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Avoid 'invisibility'
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Language that names or depicts all relationships as heterosexual
denies the complex ways in which sexualities are lived. In
particular it renders sexual identities such as lesbian, gay,
bisexual and transgender invisible. Appropriate and inclusive
language uses terms that include a range of relationship possibilities.
For example, the term 'partner', is preferable to the terms
'husband' or 'wife' if you are speaking to people whose sexual
identities (or marital status) are not known to you.
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Avoid stereotyping
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Stereotypes are strong images that assume general characteristics
for all individuals within a group. The depiction of sexual
identities in narrow or stereotypic ways is offensive because
it ignores the diversity of sexualities in our community.
It may also lead to discriminatory treatment especially towards
lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender sexualities. Stereotypes,
including those that might be seen to have a positive attribute,
are not accurate and are often damaging. Sexual identity is
not an indicator of interests or abilities. Lesbians, gay
men, bisexual, transgender and heterosexual people have a
range of interests and capabilities. References to sexualities,
especially to those that frequently experience discrimination,
should reflect diversity and a range of possibilities.
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