Using our Voices: The Crucial Role of Language in 2SLGBTQIA+ Representation

One of the first things we learn when studying linguistics is the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, which posits that language is not only a reflection of our world, but that it shapes both our world and our reality. Think about the words we use daily: “google” is not only a search engine tool, but a verb. We all know that “like” is a verb, but it can also be a red heart popping up on your screen. And I’m almost sure that if I say “swiftie,” you will know that I’m not talking about heavy metal fans. 

Moreover, when we automatically assume that “nurse” is female, (e.g. enfermera, enfermeira or infirmière, to name a few translations in gender-based languages) and “doctor” is male (likewise, médico in Spanish and Portuguese, and docteur in French), we can see that there is a gender bias in our minds that is directly reflected in language.

However, language can also be a tool to intentionally ostracize minorities. The marginalization of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, for example, is a complex issue rooted in systemic discrimination, social attitudes, and institutional barriers. Addressing this issue requires comprehensive efforts for all interested parties to promote legal equality, challenge stereotypes, foster inclusive environments, and amplify voices and experiences.

In this article, we will look at how language can be a powerful instrument and an ally for the community.

Visibility through Language

Language can shape perceptions, identities and social realities. For minority groups, like the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, language plays a vital role in promoting visibility, recognition and validation of its members’ identities and their experiences. It allows individuals to name and articulate their diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. Language also fosters a sense of solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, while allowing its members to create a sense of belonging and acknowledgement. 

Terms such as “marriage equality,” “gender-affirming healthcare,” and “non-discriminatory legislation” frame discussions around public policies and shape collective perceptions, while advocating for legal protection and social acceptance. In the same line, terms like “lesbian,” “gay,” “bisexual,” “transgender,” “queer,” and “non-binary” provide the vocabulary some people need to express their authentic selves and connect with others who share similar experiences. 

For individuals exploring their gender and sexual identities and learning how to navigate them, language can be both empowering and liberating.

Challenges and Impact of Misrepresentation

However, the other side of the coin is hazardous for the community. Misrepresentation and biased language have profound and detrimental effects on the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, perpetuating marginalization and prejudice in various shapes and forms. It can contribute to negative self-perception and internalized stigma among 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. Constant exposure to derogatory terms and stereotypes can cause feelings of shame, fear, self-doubt and low self-esteem, exacerbating mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. 

Hate speech and discriminatory language contribute to a climate of hostility and, ultimately, to violence. One such example in the Spanish language is the use of the terms lesbicidio (lesbicide) and femicidio (femicide/feminicide in English), both of which specify when a hate crime is committed respectively against lesbians or women, girls or females in general. 

These are terms recently coined to raise awareness and call attention to violence against women. Spanish speakers who refuse to use this terminology or advocate against its use argue that these terms do not exist because they cannot be found in the Spanish Royal Academy (RAE) dictionary. This invisibilization allows for verbal harassment, bullying, threats and assaults fueled by misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, and all kinds of prejudice that can escalate to physical violence and ultimately hate crimes, endangering the safety and well-being of women and particularly those who are part of 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

How Can We Use Language to Fight Injustice?

Addressing these issues requires concerted efforts to challenge prejudice, promote empathy and understanding, and create inclusive environments where all people are valued and respected for who they are. Using respectful language is paramount to the creation of safe spaces and the fostering of acceptance, particularly of marginalized groups, such as the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. 

Inclusive language validates existences and experiences, affirming each individual’s right to self-identify and to express themselves authentically. By using their chosen names, preferred pronouns, and adequate terminology, we acknowledge the gender identities and sexual orientations of these individuals as the very fabric of their lives and allow them to be proud of their uniqueness. 

In this sense, we can become allies and champions of inclusion through our language choices. Using neutral and inclusive language is a simple but powerful way that communicates with people in a respectful manner and brings everyone into the conversation. It also confirms our vision of an equal and inclusive world. Some examples of inclusive language include the use of alternatives to the male default exclusionary phrases (e.g. “humankind” for “mankind,” “salesperson” for “salesman” and “chair” for “chairman”); and the avoidance of heteronormative language and gendered assumptions (e.g. “Hi guys!” can be replaced with “Hi folks!”, “husband and wife” with “partner” or “significant other”).

By promoting representation and visibility, each one of us has the power to make a difference in the lives of people from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. To consider linguistic diversity as a cornerstone of social progress and equality, however, is a collective responsibility. By doing so, we educate others about language and the ways it can be used in favor of a more inclusive and fair society, no matter if the words appear in a dictionary or not. 

Our commitment

At OXO Innovation, our linguists are not only language experts but also passionate advocates for inclusion and diversity through the power of communication. By recognizing the profound impact of language on shaping perceptions, we promote language diversity and inclusivity in every project we handle. If you wish to treat your audiences respectfully using inclusive and non-biased language in a joint effort to build a more equitable and harmonious society, do not hesitate to contact us!