Inclusive Language Resources

adjective describing a person who has autism, a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior

• Many autistic individuals have unique talents and abilities.
• My cousin is autistic and he loves playing video games.
• Some people use 'autistic' as a derogatory term, which is not okay.
• His mind works in such an autistic way, always focused on the details.

adjective describing a person with a developmental disability affecting their intelligence and ability to function in daily life

• The term 'mentally retarded' is considered outdated and offensive, as it is not a respectful way to refer to individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Using the term 'mentally retarded' is not cool, it's better to say someone has an intellectual disability.
• Dude, that's so not cool to call someone mentally retarded, it's disrespectful.
• His progress in the project was mentally retarded, as he struggled to keep up with the rest of the team.

noun a fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing

• Gender stereotypes can have a negative impact on society by limiting opportunities for individuals based on their gender.
• It's frustrating how gender stereotypes can affect how people are treated in everyday situations.
• Gender stereotypes are so outdated and need to be thrown out the window.
• Breaking free from gender stereotypes is like breaking down a barrier to true equality.

noun a group or organization that is exclusively for boys or men

• The company's board of directors has been criticized for maintaining a boys' club mentality, excluding women from key decision-making roles.
• I heard that the tech industry can be a real boys' club, with guys dominating the field.
• The boys' club at the gym always hogs the weightlifting equipment, making it hard for others to use.
• Breaking into the boys' club of professional sports broadcasting can be tough for newcomers.

noun a statement, action, or incident regarded as an instance of indirect, subtle, or unintentional discrimination against members of a marginalized group

• The professor addressed the issue of microaggression in the workplace during the seminar.
• She didn't realize her comment was a microaggression towards her coworker.
• I can't stand when people make those subtle microaggressions.
• His constant criticism felt like a series of microaggressions.