30 Ways to Be a Better Ally in 2014 — Everyday Feminism
4. Strive to Use More Inclusive Language
There are always ways that we can use more inclusive language as allies. I, personally, think I do a pretty good job of being inclusive, but I still find myself using ableist language like “insane” or “lame” pretty often. Thus, in working to be a better ally in 2014, I can work to be even more inclusive in my language.5. Be Careful with Pronoun Use
Part of using inclusive language that is, unfortunately, still pretty new to a lot of people working for social justice is careful use of pronouns.
Not all people would label themselves with the gendered pronouns that you might assume for them, and some people prefer non-gendered pronouns altogether. A simple way that we can be inclusive is to offer what pronouns we prefer and ask others what they would prefer.
And try not to misgender people by assuming the pronouns that they would prefer unless you’ve heard them assert their preference.
…4. Apologize without Caveats
Because those of us who strive to be allies are going to inevitably fail sometimes, we have to be prepared to apologize accountably and without caveats and to work to do better in the future. And no, “I’m sorry if you were offended” is not an apology without caveats.
More: 30 Ways to Be a Better Ally in 2014 — Everyday Feminism