Today, the Canadian Association of Professional Employees (CAPE) is launching its first inclusive writing guide which outlines the importance of using inclusive and gender-neutral language in written communications and provides guidance on how to deliver more inclusive content.
This guide was developed as one of the many actions CAPE is undertaking to meet its commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
Using gender-neutral language helps to break biases and gender stereotypes that emerge through our common ways of writing – often unconsciously. Inclusive language is critical to promote social change and gender equality, and ensuring all people, regardless of identity, feel recognized.
The guide is primarily intended for use by the Association and its Locals but has been made public for the benefit of other organizations who may want to use it as a resource to produce content using more inclusive and gender-neutral language.
The guide is the result of research into existing guides and recommendations produced by Canadian organizations, such as the Government of Ontario, Institut de la statistique du Québec and the Translation Bureau, as well as academic institutions including Université de Montréal and Université Laval. CAPE has produced two different versions, one in English and one in French, to ensure that the nuances of each language are adequately addressed.
As language – and our understanding of how it is used – is continually evolving, this guide will be considered a living document. Updates will be made regularly to ensure we are following the latest recommendations for inclusive language.
CAPE is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion – both within the Association and across the public sector – so all members feel safe and valued. This guide is one of many important steps CAPE is taking to fulfill that promise.
