We tested many of the ideas in this guide at the 2006 CLC National Education Conference and Literacy Forum. We then revised them based on feedback from participants, facilitators, staff and members of the CLC Literacy Working Group.

2. Clear language as a tool for building
an inclusive conference

What is Clear Language?

Clear language is language your intended audience can easily understand. We will explore and expand this definition as we think about the role of clear language in building more inclusive conferences and other events.

Clear language is about power

• Language is a tool. It can be used to include or exclude others.
• Clear language is about hearing ALL our members' voices.
• Clear language is about refusing to use language that silences and excludes people, as when a lawyer talks in 'legalese'.
• It is about listening carefully and valuing all contributions, without judging them based on grammar, accent, style or fluency of speech.
• It is about taking time to listen to those who may take longer to express themselves because of language differences or different speaking styles.