Session Coordinator: Brianne Lewis

Words that are intentionally chosen to be inclusive and descriptive are heard and understood, which is a cornerstone of communication. Inclusive language assures diverse learners feel recognized, impacting their learning and future communication with patients. Considering the magnitude of health inequities and evidence of discrimination in healthcare, we must continue to act to identify and remove language that is harmful to learners and patients.

Medical science educators can act to remove biased language in curricular materials, promoting inclusivity in training and creating a safer learning environment. When trained to use inclusive, person-centered language, communication with future patients will be less biased, thus decreasing health inequities. This session is designed to promote inclusive language in curricular materials and uncover usage of non-person-centered language, empowering educators to promote an inclusive, safer learning environment.

At the end of this focus session, participants will be able to:
1. Discuss how the first step to psychological safety for a learner is to feel included
2. Understand how person-centered language in the curriculum supports inclusion for all learners
3. Gain an understanding of the impact on learners of not using person-centered language
4. Identify barriers to using person-centered language in curricular materials
5. Devise strategies to overcome barriers to remove biased language in curricular materials
6. Feel empowered to employ curricular solutions to work towards equitable education principles and health equity