The Inclusive Language Handbook - by Jackie Ferguson (Paperback)

About the Book

The Inclusive Language Handbook fosters inclusivity and cultivates transformative leadership. Embracing these ideas, readers journey toward better organizations, communities, families, and societies.

Book Synopsis

In a world where words can either build bridges or create barriers, The Inclusive Language Handbook: A Guide to Better Communication and Transformational Leadership by Jackie Ferguson, is a timely and essential resource for people seeking to foster inclusivity and understanding.

With a focus on the nonprofit sector, the Easterseals UCP Nonprofit Edition goes beyond mere etiquette, delving into the profound impact of language on relationships and organizational culture. Ferguson addresses the discomfort, exclusion, and misunderstandings that can arise from poorly chosen words or phrases, providing practical strategies to navigate these challenges.

As Easterseals UCP President & CEO Luanne Welch writes, "Words matter. They can heal or hurt, encourage or discourage, and connect or divide the very people at the heart of any organization. Choosing the right words can build better relationships, better companies, and better communities."

Recognizing that inclusive language is not just a matter of correctness, but an embodiment of respect and empathy, the book offers guidance on discussing personal identity and diverse aspects of human experience. By employing thoughtful and inclusive language, readers can foster stronger relationships, nurture productive teamwork, and create a culture of inclusivity that attracts and retains talented individuals.

The Inclusive Language Handbook goes beyond individual transformation, offering insights on how to drive positive culture change within communities and organizations. Ferguson presents best practices for consistently using respectful language that values every individual, creating environments where everyone feels supported, valued, and motivated. Whether you are a nonprofit leader, a team manager, or simply an individual committed to fostering a more inclusive society, The Inclusive Language Handbook provides practical tools and actionable steps for leveraging the power of words to effect meaningful change.

By embracing the principles outlined in this handbook, readers will embark on a journey toward better organizations, communities, families, and societies, where inclusive language serves as a cornerstone for building bridges, dismantling barriers, and cultivating transformative leadership.

Review Quotes

"The Inclusive Language Handbook is a game-changer for nonprofit professionals showing how inclusive language drives transformational change and empowers organizations to build stronger relationships with their communities. Packed with practical strategies and real-life examples, this book is essential for anyone committed to fostering inclusivity and amplifying impact."

- Donald Thompson, CEO and Co-founder, The Diversity Movement; Board Member, Easterseals UCP

"The Inclusive Language Handbook gives plenty of specific examples of language that creates inclusive conversations and moves businesses and organizations forward. As a professional linguist, I give this book two-thumbs up!"

- Judy Ravin, Co-founder, Accents International

"As a DEI practitioner, The Inclusive Language Handbook is a MUST, for your organizational, personal, and professional library. As our world becomes increasingly more diverse and language becomes more nuanced, this practical and easy-to-read guide will equip readers to operate efficiently, effectively, and most importantly, inclusively."

- Rhett Burden, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, Compass Family Services

"The Inclusive Language Handbook is a must-read for leaders who want to understand how to excel in today's competitive environment and work toward a more equitable society."

- Philip H. Kowalczyk, CEO, Camp Corral

"I'm a big fan of The Inclusive Language Handbook. It's a resource I use repeatedly to help me choose words that put people first."

- Karen Albritton, American Marketing Association Board of Directors, Chair, 2021-22