The Inclusive Language Guide is updated – download your copy today

Language plays a key role in shaping cultural and societal attitudes and using inclusive language is a powerful way to promote equality and eradicate biases. When we use and promote inclusive language, we are creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages people to be authentically who they are.

As co-chair of the Municipal Diversity and Inclusion Group (MDIG), York Region is pleased to share an updated version of the Inclusive Language Guide, which was developed as one of many actions resulting from the Inclusion Charter for York Region. Originally launched in 2022 and now updated in 2024, the Inclusive Language Guide is intended as a tool to help residents and York Region staff create a welcoming and inclusive environment that recognizes and celebrates all dimensions of diversity.

The Inclusive Charter for York Region was developed by MDIG, which includes 20 member organizations that serve people who live, work and visit our communities. Co-Chaired by York Region and York Regional Police, this community collaboration brings together municipalities, police services, hospitals, school boards, conservation authorities and agencies with a common commitment to welcoming and inclusive communities.

What is inclusive language?

Inclusive language is language that respects others and promotes all people as having value. Using inclusive language and communicating respectfully can create a sense of empowerment, identity and pride and is integral to our commitment to a welcoming and inclusive community where diversity is celebrated and where everyone can develop to their full potential, participate freely in society and live with respect, dignity and freedom from discrimination.

What’s in the Inclusive Language Guide?

The Guide:

• Includes guiding principles to follow to help you communicate using inclusive language
• Covers various inclusive language topics such as age, citizenship or immigration status, creed or religion, disability, gender, gender identity and gender expression, Indigenous Peoples, low-income status, marital status and family status, mental health, race or ethnic background and sexual orientation. Topics are presented through a Regional lens with key facts/data about our community
• Recommends preferred terms to use

While this guide is not a policy or procedure manual, it contains best practice recommendations on inclusive language. Since language is constantly evolving and language preferences are unique to an individual, readers should use their best judgment when applying the recommended practices and may need to adjust their language in different situations.

Make learning about and using inclusive language your goal for 2025!

The Inclusive Language Guide is one of the many actions resulting from the Inclusion Charter for York Region across our organization and in the community. York Region is dedicated to a welcoming and inclusive environment that recognizes and celebrates all dimensions of diversity. If you have any questions or comments, please contact @email