Inclusive writing: definition and tips for using it on the web

Discover the definition of inclusive writing and learn how to use it in a relevant and respectful way on the web. Encourage inclusive and progressive communication!

Inclusive writing is a concept that aims to include all gender identities in written language. It involves using neutral, gender-neutral forms to ensure fair representation. Online, using inclusive writing can be an effective way to promote diversity and equality. This article provides a clear definition of inclusive writing and practical tips for using it in a relevant and respectful way online. Discover how to integrate this inclusive approach into your online content to encourage more inclusive and progressive communication.

What is inclusive writing?

Inclusive writing is a writing method that aims to highlight and recognize equality between the masculine and feminine genders. It differs from traditional gendered writing by offering alternatives to make women and non-binary people visible, who are often invisible in the French language.

Definition

Inclusive writing involves adopting linguistic rules that allow for the representation of all individuals, regardless of their gender or gender identity. It aims to avoid the dominance of the masculine gender in formulations and to promote greater gender equality in written communication.

Objectives

The objectives of inclusive writing are multiple. First, it seeks to promote gender equality by recognizing the importance of women and non-binary people in society. It also aims to include all individuals by avoiding formulations that exclude women and recognizing the diversity of gender identities. Finally, it seeks to change attitudes by challenging gender stereotypes and promoting a more inclusive and egalitarian society.

Why use inclusive writing on the web?

The use of inclusive writing on the web presents several benefits significant.

Promoting gender equality

Inclusive writing helps combat the dominance of the masculine gender in language and recognizes gender equality. By using inclusive language, it is possible to challenge the prejudices and gender stereotypes that are rooted in our society. This helps create a more egalitarian and inclusive online environment.

Include all individuals

Inclusive writing recognizes and values the diversity of gender identities. By using wording that encompasses male, female, and non-binary genders, this writing method offers a more accurate and equitable representation of all individuals. It thus helps people of all genders feel included and respected.

Changing mentalities

Inclusive writing has the potential to contribute to a change in mindsets regarding gender roles and stereotypes. By using language that reflects a more balanced gender distribution, it is possible to challenge traditional norms and promote a more open and inclusive vision of society. The web offers an ideal platform to disseminate these new linguistic constructs and participate in the transformation of mentalities.

The different techniques of inclusive writing

There are several techniques you can use to adopt inclusive writing in your online writing.

Double bending

Double inflection involves agreeing the gender of common nouns and adjectives to include both feminine and masculine genders. For example, instead of writing "les étudiants," one can write "les étudiantes et les étudiants." This makes the feminine gender visible, whereas it is generally ignored in traditional writing.

The midpoint

The midpoint is a punctuation mark used to represent both feminine and masculine genders. For example, we can write "les candidat·e·s" instead of "les candidats." This allows both genders to appear equally.

Alternating genres

Another technique is to alternate genders within a text. For example, instead of using only the masculine gender to refer to a person generically, one can alternate the use of the feminine and masculine genders to make all gender identities visible. This technique can be used more creatively and flexibly depending on the context.

Tips for using inclusive writing

Using inclusive writing effectively on the web requires some important advice.

Awareness and learning

It's essential to familiarize yourself with the principles and techniques of inclusive writing before applying it. Training and raising awareness about gender equality and inclusivity issues can help you better understand the motivations and impacts of this writing method. There are numerous online resources, guides, and training courses available to help you learn how to use inclusive writing appropriately.

Using the right lexicon

Choosing the right vocabulary to refer to people and groups of people is important. It is recommended to avoid gendered terms that do not reflect the diversity of gender identities. Favor neutral or inclusive terms, such as "people," "individuals," or "participants," rather than terms that exclude a segment of the population.

Moderation and balance

When using inclusive writing, it's essential to maintain a balance between inclusivity and understanding the message. Too much inclusivity can make a text complex and difficult to read. Finding a balance between clarity and inclusivity helps make content accessible to all without compromising its readability.

Adapting to the target audience

It's important to consider your target audience when using inclusive writing. Some people may be more familiar with this writing method than others. Adapt your use of inclusive writing based on your audience's level of knowledge and sensitivity to the topic to ensure effective communication.

The advantages and limitations of inclusive writing

Inclusive writing has many advantages, but it is not without limitations and controversies.

Benefits of inclusive writing

Inclusive writing promotes gender equality, represents all gender identities, and fosters inclusion. It contributes to a more egalitarian and respectful online environment. Furthermore, the use of inclusive writing on the web can have a positive impact by fostering a shift in attitudes and encouraging more inclusive language practices.

Limits and controversies

Some critics of inclusive writing point to its potential to complicate language and make reading less fluent. Some also believe that it does not fully address gender inequalities and that further action is needed. Furthermore, there are debates over the precise rules of inclusive writing and the general acceptance of this writing method.

The impact of inclusive writing on the web

The use of inclusive writing has a significant impact on the web.

Visibility and accessibility

Inclusive writing helps make women and non-binary people, who are often invisible in the French language, visible. By providing a more balanced representation of genders, it promotes inclusion and accessibility of content for all individuals.

User reaction

Adopting inclusive writing on the web can elicit both positive and negative reactions from users. Some appreciate this inclusive approach, while others may find it difficult to understand or accept. It is important to consider these reactions and find a balance to meet audience expectations while pursuing inclusion goals.

Platform evolution

The use of inclusive writing also has an impact on online platforms. More and more websites, blogs, and social media are adopting measures to facilitate the use of inclusive writing. Some platforms even integrate support tools and specific features to facilitate the adoption of this form of writing.

Examples of the use of inclusive writing on the web

Inclusive writing is used in various contexts on the web.

Activist and association websites

Many activist and non-profit websites use inclusive writing to promote gender equality and make women and non-binary people visible. These sites play an important role in disseminating this inclusive approach and helping to raise public awareness.

Online communities

Online communities, such as discussion forums or social media, can also use inclusive writing to promote inclusion and representation of all individuals. This practice helps create a more inclusive virtual space where everyone can feel represented and respected.

Companies and brands

Some companies and brands are also incorporating inclusive writing into their online communications, recognizing the importance of promoting gender equality and inclusion in their strategies communication. Using inclusive writing can be an effective way to demonstrate a company's commitment to equality and attract a wider, more diverse audience.

Practical advice for integrating inclusive writing into your website

If you want to integrate inclusive writing into your websiteHere are a few practical tips.

Language modification

Modify your language by using inclusive writing rules such as double inflection, the midpoint, or gender alternation. Adapt your vocabulary and wording to fairly represent all gender identities.

Use of help tools

Use support tools, such as spell checkers or specific extensions, to facilitate the use of inclusive writing. These tools can help you spot errors and adopt best practices.

User testing

Submit your content to users to gather feedback and assess the effectiveness of your use of inclusive writing. This step allows you to incorporate feedback and evolve your inclusive writing strategy based on your audience's expectations.

Responses to critics and detractors of inclusive writing

In the face of criticism and detractors of inclusive writing, there are arguments in favor of this writing method.

Arguments in favor of inclusive writing

Arguments in favor of inclusive writing emphasize the importance of recognizing gender equality, combating gender stereotypes and discrimination, and creating a more inclusive language environment. They highlight the power of words to shape the norms and mindsets of our society.

Refutation of common criticisms

Some criticisms of inclusive writing, such as the complexity of the language or the ineffectiveness in fully addressing gender inequalities, can be refuted by highlighting the benefits of a more inclusive society and emphasizing that inclusive writing is an important step in the fight against inequalities.

Conclusion

Inclusive writing is a writing method that aims to promote gender equality, include all individuals, and shift attitudes. Used online, it makes women and non-binary people visible, encourages online inclusion, and fosters more equitable language practices. While not without limitations and controversies, inclusive writing nevertheless offers an opportunity to build a more inclusive and respectful linguistic space. By adapting our language and educating users, we can help create a more egalitarian online culture that represents all gender identities.