Words matter- Sharing Stories

• Burgerschapsonderwijs
• HBO
• Studiejaar 3

Words Matter

Sharing Stories

Voorste slide bij iedere LessonUp les:

Questions or thoughts on Words Matter?

Keep in mind:

When or why is this word possibly sensitive?

Which word could you use alternatively?

Hut

We

Which word do you use for somebody that can not hear?

1. deaf
2. Hearing-impaired
3. Deaf

How can you address a person or group in a gender inclusive way?

Would you tell a person that he/she/they is/are fat?

1. Yes
2. No

Fat

Which uncomfortable/ sensitive words or situations have you encountered in your work/ personal life?

 Tips

• Use the name/ pronoun that people give themselves. 
  
• Check if names/ words have a problematic history or are subject to discussion. And make sure that it is appropiate that YOU use that name/word.
• Be careful with the word "still" and diminutives.

 Tips

• Only use we/they when it is very clear who you refer to.
• Be aware of the image that a word can bring to mind.
  
• Apply a word or description to youself/ your culture.
• Research your own perspective, what are your assumptions/ possible blind spots?

Tips

• Be open, interested, ask questions, talk and listen!
• Don't be afraid to make mistakes.
• Apologize for mistakes you make/ have made and learn from them.
• Be aware that you are now making an "informed choice". 
  

Lisa Kleeven
Senior coordinator education
[e-mail]