“When in doubt, choose not to harm somebody.”

Jen Moritz, senior editor and inclusive language specialist (and Brian’s wife) joins us to talk about inclusive language.

What is inclusive language?

So glad you asked!

Jen defines the term for us, and also describes how she got interested and involved in this area of editing. She tells us how the pandemic influenced her interest in inclusive language, how editing for inclusive language is an extension of her “Grammar Tingle” and what she does when that is activated by word or phrase, and how inclusive editing can help connect us back to our humanity in an increasingly digital world.

We also go down a rabbit hole about the phrase “rule of thumb” and what to do when people think you’re wrong but you’re actually right.

Other rabbit holes include dragon smut, fairy smut, banned books and Maintenance Phase.

Also, as far as we can tell, “flying by the seat of your pants” is not problematic. As a phrase, at least.

“You will always be learning. You will never have perfect language and perfect representation. You’re just doing your best.”

Links

Jen Moritz on LinkedIn

Maintenance Phase

The Conscious Language Newsletter

Rabbit with a Red Pen

Abraham Piper

Flamer (the best thing Jen’s read lately.)

Other Words For Home (the best thing Jen’s read lately.)

Rebecca Yarros Empyrean Series (the best thing Jen has read lately.)

Sarah J. Mass books (the best thing Brian has read lately.)

Support

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