Introducing the CFA Inclusive Language Guide

 

CFA is committed to creating a safe and inclusive culture - a responsibility we all share.

 

We are excited to share a significant milestone in our collective journey towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming CFA. Today, we proudly unveil our Inclusive Language Guide Booklet, a transformative resource designed to elevate the way we communicate, connect, and engage within our diverse community.

Language is critical to inclusion; how we speak to and about one another influences how we treat one another. Using inclusive language ensures that we are welcoming of all people and assist in making CFA a great place to volunteer and work. The development of the Inclusive Language Guide is a key action from the Diversity and Inclusion Strategy

Why do we need inclusive language?

Words are powerful. The language we use reflects our attitudes and behaviours and can either give people a sense of belonging, or it can make people feel excluded. Language is learned from infancy, and it can be deeply ingrained. Sometimes we may not be conscious of the harmful impact our words can have on others.

People know the difference between right and wrong, and we can choose the words that we use when communicating with others. We are all on a journey of learning and this Inclusive Language Guide is designed to help keep us up to date with language that is helpful to make people feel valued and respected, and intentionally leave people feeling excluded.

The work that we are doing at CFA in Diversity and Inclusion is about building sustainable brigades and teams. We have a long history of volunteers from our local communities working together to protect lives and property. We want the language we use to honour our history and give people from under-represented groups a clear message that they are seen and heard and are welcome to become a part of CFA.

The Inclusive Language Guide we have developed is a thoughtful and helpful tool to ensure that we are using person-centred language that delivers that message of welcome and belonging.

How to access the guide

You can access the Inclusive Language Guide on Members Online and explore the guide at your own pace. We encourage everyone to read this booklet.

With the Inclusive Language Guide, we take another step towards creating an environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and included.

For help applying inclusive language in practice, contact the Diversity and Inclusion Team via diversityandinclusionteam@cfa.vic.gov.au. Check out Inclusive Language In Action to learn more.

 

Submitted by	Diversity and Inclusion Team