It is critical to think about how the words used to talk about people can extend them dignity, respect and inclusion. That especially includes the pronouns and names colleagues and clients in legal proceedings.
“In speech and silence, words matter,” especially in the delivery of legal services, the practice of law and the administration of justice, said Lisa Burke, the acting diversity, inclusion, and community engagement program manager of the New Jersey Judiciary.
“As lawyers one of strongest tools as advocates for our clients is language,” added NJSBA Jeffrey Fiorello, who is chair of the LGBTQ Rights Section
NJSBA Trustee Celeste Fiore said everyone in the profession has a role to play in speaking up for members of the LGBTQ+ community as language and terminology continues to evolve.
“We all know words matter, but we all make mistakes, so the words we say after a mistake might matter more than the words we said when we put our foot in our mouths,” they said.
It takes practice to use gender neutral language, said attorney Jamie Zug. But the more you use it, the easier it is to incorporate in your practice and life.