Inclusive Language Guide

Looks like you left a few out...

The University of Washington (or U-Dub, as we like to call it) published an “Inclusive Language Guide” earlier this year, and it is a wonder to behold. I encourage you all to go take a look at the words they deem “problematic” and why. Here’s the link: https://itconnect.uw.edu/guides-by-topic/identity-diversity-inclusion/inclusive-language-guide/

In an effort to be true to their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion values, UW has problematized such words and phrases as the following (quoting directly from their site):

mob programming

Definition:

Mob programming (informally mobbing) is a software development approach where the whole team works on the same thing, at the same time, in the same space, and on the same computer.

Why it’s problematic:

The intention was for a general, non-hierarchical group of people to self-organize and by accomplishing tasks “be dangerous.” However, historically, the use of “mob” has a racial component and has been used derogatorily and in a negative way.

and

man-in-the-middle

Definition:

In cryptography and computer security, a man-in-the-middle attack is a cyberattack where the attacker secretly relays and possibly alters the communications between two parties who believe that they are directly communicating with each other.

Why it’s problematic:

Use of “man” is not inclusive, and thus sexist.

and even

see

Definition:

The definition of “see” can mean to look with one’s eyes at something, and so is associated with vision. It can also be used on a website or in a story posted online to mean “refer to,” “visit,” “know” or “understand.”

Why it’s problematic:

Though these uses of the word “see” aren’t inherently incorrect or necessarily offensive, content providers should avoid using the word “see” in situations in which a more accurate, non-ableist word would be better.

But, UW, I think you missed a spot. I have a few additions that will improve your list. In fact, I’m surprised you didn’t think of these, yourself! Consider this a gift. You’re welcome.

Write

Why is it problematic? The word "write" is very similar to the word "white." At a glance, or if mispronounced, "write" could be mistaken for "white," and this could be harmful or triggering to BIPOC victims of the white supremacist cis-heteronormative patriarchy.

“write” is also ableist. Not everyone can write.

In order to avoid further victimization of marginalized folx, consider using a more inclusive word, like "compose" or "type" or "put down." However, these are all also problematic.

Compose

Why is it problematic? The word "compose" evokes images of classical music composers, hence European colonial white supremacist culture. It's is inextricably linked with power, privilege, and oppression of BIPOC cultures.

Type

Why is it problematic? The word "type" is part of the word "stereotype," and stereotypes have been used by white people to oppress black and brown folx and indigenous peoples for generations. Plus it’s also ableist, duh.

Put down

Why is it problematic? A "put down" is an insult or derogatory statement meant to "put someone in their place," and historically white oppressors have systematically established a dominance hierarchy that places BIPOC and LGBTQIAA2+ folx at the bottom.

Until such time as a suitable alternative to "write" can be developed, students should avoid using the word or its alternatives, or engaging in any such practice as suggested by the word. Additionally, due to the elitist history of literacy wherein only wealthy, privileged white males had access to education, reading and writing are potentially triggering for marginalized folx who may still be subject to such disparities and may carry ancestral trauma which prevents them from attaining literary fluency. Hence reading and writing are strongly discouraged for UW students. Instead, consider engaging in intentional silence so you can contemplate the struggles of oppressed BIPOC folx, and hold space for their voices which will be amplified by diminishing elitist college-educated voices in our social dialogues.

The English language

Why is it problematic? The English language is problematic for a number of reasons. The English language developed during the medieval period as an amalgam of German, French, and Latin, with Norse elements as well. Over time, parts of various other languages and cultures have been incorporated, and the English language continues to evolve as it absorbs new cultural information. Thus, the English language is entirely built upon a process of systematic cultural appropriation, and is thereby deeply offensive to a number of indigenous cultures.
Furthermore, English is the language of whiteness and colonialism. The languages on which the English language is based are all spoken by white Europeans, who have ruthlessly oppressed and imposed their will and their language on indigenous peoples throughout the world. This has been especially harmful to black and brown folx and Latinx folx.
The English language is inextricably linked to whiteness and white supremacy, and is inherently racist. White English speakers should refrain from speaking in English to avoid cultural appropriation or harming BIPOC listeners. Because white English speakers cannot learn an alternative language due to the need to avoid further cultural appropriation, they are advised as an alternative to spend time in silent contemplation of the harmful historical and current impacts of white supremacy, and to make room for the voices of black and brown folx to be amplified.
BIPOC and LGBTQIAA2+ English speakers are encouraged to speak their truth in whatever language feels right based on their lived experiences, but with the awareness that using English may constitute internalized oppression, which is problematic.

Therefore in order to promote a diverse University environment, UW students are encouraged as much as possible to refrain writing and speaking.