Glossary Index

Purpose

The terminology considerations below can be used to communicate in a way that prioritizes, supports, and advances health equity globally. Not all recommendations apply universally. Our resource is intended as a starting point rather than a definitive guide. Rather, this glossary is intended to increase awareness and understanding of why some terms may need reevaluation. All considerations should be discussed and further localized and tailored to your intended audience.

Disclaimers

  1. The primary goals of the list below are to foster reflection/understanding on why some terms need reevaluation and to provide recommendations on how terminology could shift to further promote equity. Be cautious not to simply replace terms with new ones that lack current stigma but could be just as harmful/vague/inaccurate as the original.
  2. The list below is English-specific and is neither comprehensive, nor final. Not all recommendations are applicable to every situation/context across the world. This resource is a useful starting point, but it is critical to engage varying levels of community members to localize/tailor all considerations presented below.
  3. The considerations below are not universally agreed upon or embraced. Thus, the below is not a style guide. The considerations below are intended to prompt discussion and reflection, raise awareness, and offer recommendations while language, terminology, and cultures continue to evolve. Avoid shaming colleagues and partners when engaging in discussion of terminology. Prioritize diplomatic discussion about why some terminology is more/less appropriate, depending on the context.

Browse our glossary

Glossary Terminology Considerations - Part 1
‎

Learn how to carefully consider your language in global public health settings.
Learn more

Glossary Terminology Considerations - Part 2‎

Learn how to carefully consider your language in global public health settings.
Global Terminology Considerations (cont.)
Print
Content Source:
Global Health Center