Inclusive Language

The use of they as a gender-neutral pronoun, in addition to as a general singular pronoun, has become increasingly known and accepted. But be mindful that, while it is common practice for transgender individuals to use they (and them, their), some may prefer the use of xe/ze, etc. Remembering that clarity of communication should always be the top priority — and that reader unfamiliarity with terms such as xe/ze might lead to unclear communications — it is highly recommended that xe/ze, etc. be avoided unless specifically requested by the subject of a story. In such cases, an explanation must be provided. Likewise, to ensure clarity, if using they for someone who does not identify as either male or female, make certain that the phrasing does not imply more than one person. When using they/them/their is unavoidable, explain in the text that the person prefers a gender-neutral pronoun. But, ultimately, the ideal scenario might involve reworking the sentence so that the person’s name is used in place of a pronoun.

Avoid sexist, racist, or other terminology that could be interpreted as offensive to an individual or group:

• man
• mankind
• man-made
• man-machine
• foreigner

Alternative terminology:

• man: person, people, human race, human beings, individual, humankind, humans, humanity
• man-made: built, synthetic, artificial
• foreigner: international or use of the specific nationality

Note: There is nothing offensive about using man when referring to a particular male, but the term can be inappropriate when used to encompass all members of society.

Though the use of woman as an adjective is becoming more common — and is even preferred by some — AP's recommendation remains the use of female as an adjective — not woman. Using female as a noun, however, is never acceptable.

Likewise, do not use expressions that could be perceived as exclusionary, e.g., brother's keeper, brothers and sisters. Instead, use terms that are inclusive, e.g., children instead of boys and girls; kindred instead of brothers and sisters. In following that recommendation, however, be careful not to create forced substitutions; for instance, never use siblinghood to replace brotherhood or sisterhood.

Remember also that while African American as a descriptor is acceptable in many contexts in the U.S., this term is not necessarily interchangeable with Black. Some Caribbean Americans or Latinos, for example, may not identify as African American; therefore, consider your audience and determine whether Black would be a more appropriate word choice in order to be truly all-encompassing.