The language of race and inclusiveness includes terms that are unfamiliar or unclear to many people. Yet, clarity, correctness and familiarity with preferences are important to appropriate communication in a multicultural church and society. One result is the occasional use of hyphens or slashes (/) to mean “and/or” when combining some terms in general usage—for example, “racial/ethnic” or “Hispanic/Latino/Latina.” Another example is knowing when and how to use the term “minority” in reference to a racial/ethnic group, but never a person. This may be one of the most useful and important glossaries you will come across. We suggest you peruse its entries and even print and keep the full glossary, offered as a PDF document. There is also a separate preferred usage chart available titled, “Speaking of Diversity: What You Say Matters.”
Please note, however, that we will add to and update this glossary occasionally, sometimes with suggestions from readers like you. And we plan to invite and offer occasional articles on racial/cultural terminology and communication for an inclusive church. So be sure to come back and review this section from time to time—at least to see what new terms we’ve added or changes we may have made. And please help us improve this helpful resource be sending in your suggestions and perspectives on terms, definitions and correct usage. Thanks.
