The Inclusive Language Handbook - by Jackie Ferguson & Roxanne Bellamy (Paperback)

About the Book

Handbook helps strengthen communication skills. Demonstrates how to consistently use respectful language that promotes inclusion, productivity, and teamwork.

Book Synopsis

Have you ever felt excluded, offended, or misunderstood because of a word or a phrase that someone used? Ever felt uncomfortable-or at a loss for what to say-when talking about some aspect of personal identity? If so, you're not alone. Thoughtfully chosen words can be powerful relationship builders, while ill-chosen or unthinking comments can alienate and offend. In the workplace specifically, repeating harmful language over time creates a toxic company culture, high employee turnover, and a damaged reputation.

The Inclusive Language Handbook: A Guide to Better Communication and Transformational Leadership by Jackie Ferguson and Roxanne Bellamy is designed to help you get comfortable discussing all aspects of human diversity and identity. The authors demonstrate how to consistently use respectful language that promotes inclusion, productivity, and teamwork. You'll discover professional best practices for choosing words that help every individual feel valued, supported, and motivated.You'll also learn how to drive positive culture change by spreading the practice of inclusive language throughout your community and organization.

No matter who you are or the work you do, your word choice matters. The Inclusive Language Handbook is a powerful tool in navigating this critical journey toward better organizations, communities, families, and societies.

Review Quotes

"Retail is about welcoming people and making them feel they want to be part of your business. That spirit is grounded in the language we use, so getting educated on inclusive language is a game changer for retailers. The Inclusive Language Handbook by Jackie Ferguson and Roxanne Bellamy 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, Advisor to Retail Executives and Former President and CEO; The Body Shop, Talbots, J. Jill, and The Robert Allen Group

"As someone who was voted "most talkative" in high school, my friends will tell you I'm never at a loss for words. Even so, I sometimes wonder If the words I'm choosing accurately reflect my values or the respect I have for others, but I don't always know who to ask. That's why 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

"Almost every company in every sector has become a technology company. And technology leaders have a responsibility to respond to-and shape-the business culture in which we live and work. The Inclusive Language Handbook provides clear guidance on how to embrace inclusive language, a key step to help overcome some of the tech industry's intrinsic biases. This is a go-to resource for leaders who want to improve workplace culture and regain trust."

- Bob Osmond, President, Racepoint Global

"The Inclusive Language Handbook by Jackie Ferguson and Roxanne Bellamy is so engaging I read it in one sitting. The 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