Does inclusive language risk becoming performative when detached from structural change? Inclusive language is essential for creating equitable communication and reducing discrimination.
It's crucial to ensure that this practice isn't just a performative exercise without real changes. To achieve genuine equality, we must incorporate systemic transformation.
The Oxford Dictionary defines "performative" as "having the quality of being intended to produce an effect rather than describe one." It means that actions like saying "I love you" are more about doing something than describing it. In relation to language, this means that using inclusive terms like "they" or "them" may seem progressive but fail if we don't make tangible improvements in society. By itself, inclusive language can be seen as performative because it focuses on words instead of deeds.
Calling someone nonbinary may be considered politically correct, but if their rights aren't protected and they're still marginalized, it doesn't matter much.
To avoid this situation, we need to go beyond words and implement structural changes. We can start by changing policies that affect people's lives, such as improving accessibility in workplaces and healthcare facilities, increasing opportunities for underrepresented groups in education and employment, promoting intersectional approaches, and implementing anti-discriminatory practices.
We should support initiatives that address systemic biases and prejudices, such as affirmative action, cultural competence training, and diversity and inclusion programs. This way, we can create a culture where everyone feels valued regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, disability, religion, age, etc.
We must recognize our privileges and actively combat discrimination. White people should acknowledge white supremacy and fight racism, men should challenge sexism and misogyny, cisgender individuals should advocate for transgender rights, and so on. These actions are essential because they involve more than just speaking about equality; they require taking real steps to achieve it.
While inclusive language is crucial, we cannot rely solely on it without making substantive progress towards creating an equitable world. Let us prioritize transformational change over performative language to build a better society free from oppression.
Does inclusive language risk becoming performative when detached from structural change?
No, inclusive language does not necessarily become performative when it is disconnected from structural changes. Inclusive language refers to the practice of using words that are gender-neutral, accessible, and culturally sensitive in an effort to promote equality and representation for marginalized groups within society. This can be achieved through various means such as avoiding gendered language (e. g.