Language is how we communicate our needs, relate to each other, make connections, express ourselves and show who we are. The words we use may also have unintended consequences.

When we use gendered words to describe an occupation such as ‘policeman’, ‘fireman’ or ‘mailman’, we infer it is man’s job. Yet, your daughter or granddaughter may want to be a police officer, fire fighter or mail carrier one day!

Some may believe it’s cute, even complimentary, to call a group of women ‘girls’, not realizing it implies a different level of maturity and autonomy.

Do you find there is often a double standard when describing similar behaviors in men and women? A man at work is called ‘assertive’ if he speaks out at a meeting in a commanding way, yet a woman at the meeting who exhibits the very same behavior is described as ‘bossy’ or ‘pushy’. Same behavior, but we apply a positive connotation to the male behavior and a negative one to the very same behavior in a woman.
If we want to live in a society where men and women are treated equally, we can start by being more aware of the words we use throughout the day and making adjustments. It’s not always easy to change the words we use, and it won’t happen overnight. Some may say this is making a big deal out of nothing, yet seemingly small every day actions are what creates real change. Awareness and thinking about how our words impact those around us will create a change in our homes and our community; one that promotes respect of all people, equal opportunities and a safer, happier world for all of us.

For more information on everyday actions you can take that promote kindness and respect in your community, visit http://wrcnm.org/links/how-you-can-help.