CHAP 5 GENDER-FAIR LANGUAGE Flashcards
(15 cards)
is a tool that reinforces unequal gender relations through sex-role stereotypes, microaggressions, and sexual harassment, or to perpetuate stereotypes.
Sexist language
Rooted in the assumption that men are dominant and are the norm of the fullness of humanity and women do not exist
Invisibilization of Women
i. (Ex. The use of the word mankind, Saying “guys” when referring to a group of mixed genders)
The generic use of masculine pronouns or the use of a masculine general
ii.(Example: “farmers and their wives”, “politicians and their wives”, “doctors and their wives”
The assumption that certain functions or jobs are performed by men instead of both genders.
Ex. CameraMAN…
The use of male job titles or terms ending in man to refer to functions that may be given to both genders
iv.The use of “lady”, “girl” or “woman” along with the noun brings attention to the gender of the person rather than to the job or function.
Bringing attention to the gender of a person if that person is a woman.
v.Women may be called “darling” or “baby” by those who don’t know them, making them appear childish or juvenile
The perception of women as immature
vi.By being called “honey”, “Sweets” or “chick”, women become devalued, especially if they are in an environment that merits formality such as the workplace.
The objectification or likening to objects, of women.
b.Language that lacks parallelism fosters unequal gender relations. The use of “man and wife” assumes that men are still men and women’s identities change into beings in relation to their husbands.
Fostering unequal gender relations.
Examples:
Men – boss
Women – bossy
Men – providers
Women – uncaring
Gender polarization of words in use of adjectives.
Naming Things
- Sexual harassment
- Date rape
- The Feminine Mystique, in 1963 by Betty Friedan
experienced by housewives, that despite their basic needs, being met, they themselves were unable to take control of their lives
Structural oppression
Constantly mocking or joking about women or the LGBT, sexualizing them, and making them appear weak would indeed make them internalize these ideas.
Being sexist depends on a specific culture.
Toward a Gender-Fair Language
Gender-fair language and removal of sexist language is currently being advocated by
GABRIELA (General Assembly Binding Women for Reforms, Integrity, Equality, Leadership and Action) Women’s Party
called for a ban of sexist language in all official communication and documents in the house of representatives.
GABRIELA
