Inclusive Language in Clinical Practice

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Session Type: Concurrent Sessions

Session Capacity: N/A

Location: Marriott St. Louis Grand

Room: Landmark 2

Floor: Ground Floor, Conference Plaza

Lawyers’ primary professional tool is language. Accordingly, lawyers should strive to use accurate, clear, and compelling word choices in their communications. Attorneys have the responsibility to use words that demonstrate respect for our clients and others. In addition, clinical instructors seek to further pedagogical and representation goals while also communicating principles of equity, inclusion, and justice that are core to legal work. Inclusive language principles help to guide lawyers in choosing the most appropriate words to engender respect, amplify understanding, and enhance communication. While this requires nuanced analysis specific to the context and individuals involved, inclusive language can have a myriad of benefits. Beyond mere grammatical accuracy or linguistic specificity, word choices can help build relationships, foster understanding, and provide insight into personal narratives. Inclusive language is a goal unto itself, not simply a means to achieving advocacy goals, whether in the context of litigation, legislation, or community education. This 60-minute panel presentation will consider the use of inclusive language in clinical teaching, across content areas and practice modalities. In addition to best practices and anecdotes offered by the facilitators, this session will allow for extensive audience participation to discuss the application of these principles in their own practice. Participants will explore the terms used by clinics in practice and the potential implications of those choices on student learning, case outcomes, as well as client, partner, and community relationships.