METM26 presentation

Words matter: steps to more inclusive, bias-free communication

Elina I. Nocera, Perugia, Italy

Language reflects the history, culture, values and collective experiences of the people who speak it and affects how we think and interpret the world around us. The words we use are powerful. When used well, they can inspire, motivate and unite, but when used inaccurately, they can harm, divide and exclude.

In today’s complex world, paying attention to the words we choose and communicating inclusively are more important than ever. Yet biases relating to people’s physical, cultural and personal characteristics keep creeping into everyday language, often without us even realising.

In this talk, we’ll explore what bias is, different types of bias and their consequences, and why it’s important to recognise it. We’ll also dive deeper into four isms – sexism, ableism, ageism and classism – and reflect on ways we can break them.

Communicating more inclusively is not about being politically correct, and it’s more than just replacing words with others. It’s about being accurate, embracing empathy and putting people first, helping them feel recognised and included in the conversation.

This session is for all language professionals who want to increase their awareness of bias and its impact and make the texts they write, edit, translate or transcreate more relatable to a broader audience.

About the presenter

Elina I. Nocera is a bilingual Italian–English marketing translator with 18 years of experience who has branched out into copywriting. She helps brands connect with their audiences through a natural tone of voice. Elina is based in Perugia and is a member of MET, IAPTI, and the Italian Copywriters’ Association.