1. Using Bias-Free Language
Use sensitive, bias-free language
Unintentional offensiveness
Potential bias:
Gender (avoid sexist language)
Race/Ethnicity (only if necessary in context)
Age (use only if relevant)
Disabilities (only if relevant, don’t stigmatize)

2. Avoiding Gender Bias Gender Biased Improved Language
female doctor, cleaning woman
doctor, cleaner
waiter/waitress, stewardess
server, flight attendant
mankind, man-hour
humanity, working hours
the doctor…..he
doctors…..they
executives and their wives
executives and their spouses
businessman, salesman
businessperson, salesperson
Each worker had his picture taken.
Each worker had a picture taken.

3. Avoiding Racial/Ethnic Bias
Racially/Ethnically Biased
Improved Language
An Indian Accountant was hired.
An accountant was hired.
James Lee, an African American, applied.
James Lee applied.
Avoiding Age Bias
Age Biased
Improved Language
The law applied to old people.
The law applied to people over 65 (or senior citizens).
Sally Kay, 55, was transferred.
Sally Kay was transferred.
a little old lady
a woman

4. Avoiding Disability Bias
Disability Biased
Improved Language
afflicted with, suffering from, crippled by
has
defect, disease
condition
confined to a wheelchair
uses a wheelchair