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.
Jackie Ferguson specializes in creating world-changing content as Vice President of Content and Programing at The Diversity Movement. She co-founded TDM with the idea of revolutionizing workplaces through diversity-led initiatives that ultimately improve lives and communities. A bestselling author, Ferguson wrote The Inclusive Language Handbook: A Guide to Better Communication and Transformational Leadership, sold in 15 countries around the world. The Inclusive Language Handbook has sparked a revolution in the way people communicate. She hosts the "Diversity: Beyond the Checkbox" podcast, recently cited among the top 5% downloaded globally. The podcast provides a platform for trailblazers, senior business leaders, game-changers, and glass-ceiling breakers to share their inspiring stories, lessons learned, and insights on business, inclusion, and personal development. Ferguson has earned extensive recognition for her accomplishments including being named to the 2023 Inc. Female Founders 200 list, the 200 women leaders across America who are "shaping the world into a better place." Her team also created TDM's MicroVideos library, recognized as a "World Changing Idea" by Fast Company. In 2021, the company was named "Best In Business" in DE&I Advocacy by Inc. Magazine. A certified diversity executive, Ferguson is a member of the Forbes Business Council, National Diversity Council, and has published in or been an expert commentator for numerous publications, including Forbes, Charlotte Observer, Raleigh News and Observer, WRAL TechWire, Almanac, Fast Company, Well + Good, and others. She is an in-demand keynote speaker on diversity and belonging topics. Ferguson is an alumna of the University of South Florida and lives in North Carolina with her husband and daughter.
Luanne Welch is the President and CEO of Easterseals UCP (ESUCP). Her view of disabilities was informed early in life by first grade friends, family, and neighbors. Each relationship taught her to see the world through the lens of others, to hear and lift up their voices. Those experiences shaped her career. Luanne continues to be a thought leader, change agent, and powerful voice within the national health and human services industry. In addition, Luanne is recognized as a turnaround leader with an ability to reorganize financially challenged organizations and reposition them for sustained, healthy growth. Luanne is devoted to positive change. She actively engages an employee Council around inclusion, diversity, equity, authenticity, and learning. This rewarding and humbling journey has deepened her understanding, strengthened her leadership style, and provided meaningful insight for business decisions.Prior to leading ESUCP, Luanne was the President and CEO for Easterseals South Florida. She has also held various Easterseals leadership positions with both the North Carolina affiliate and the National Office. Luanne is a graduate of North Carolina State University. She is Board Secretary of i2i Center for Integrative Health, is Vice Chair of UCP Regional Affiliate Council, Advisory Board Member for Becoming RentABLE (an organization bringing visibility to the need for accessible, short-term rentals to individuals living with disabilities), and an Advisory Board Member at Open Minds (an award-winning source of information, executive education and health and human service business solutions). She enjoys spending time with family and has a special place in her heart for her grandson.
