To expand the conversations on structural racism and health, we need to lead with values and we need to keep it simple. Using jargon or fuzzy language doesn’t bring people closer together to solve issues of equity. We need to use plain language. As M. Allyn Brooks-LaSure shared at BMe’s Next Narrative Summit last month, communications professionals should always strive to be clear, cohesive, and consequential. Tell us how you've used plain language in your work. What has helped you and your organization communicate more directly and clearly?
Katherine Cain
1mo
This is great. I have noticed that when I speak jargony-type phrases, I feel inauthentic and disconnected from myself. It really makes sense that when we want to communicate about these topics, we take a moment to speak from a place where we don't just want to state concepts, but where we are really trying to connect with people. Also, as a Gen-Xer, I did burst out laughing at the mention of Sussudio.
If it (the vision or plan) can't be made plain, there's something wrong with it.
UNC CHER
2w
Thank you RWJF for continuing to highlight the role communications and communicators play in this work. We are continually working to simplify language in a way that's accessible for all. We use FrameWorks Institute guidance and science communication techniques to work on writing clear language. It can be hard - change often is - but we know it's important. We see using plain language as part of our values of Authentic collaboration and Intellectual growth.
JoAnn Stevelos
1mo
Stories bring people closer together. Sharing with people how and why you are connected to the work/issue is the first step in establishing relationships and trust. Thank you for bringing this important conversation to the table.
M. Allyn Brooks-LaSure is one of the best, and appreciate the reminder about keeping it plain.
Kenia Guimaraes
1mo
Thanks for sharing and I would like to learn more and interested to work with you.
Michael Sneed
1mo
Nice job Allyn!
Well said M. Allyn Brooks-LaSure!
We tell folks not to get stuck on the different ways people label the racial inequities they see, especially when talking to audiences with varying views on race and degrees of willingness to talk about it. Instead, we can name the tension we’re seeing and use that discussion to get to a more productive conversation right away. For example, when talking about disparities in housing: “People of color haven’t had the same access to resources or opportunities to own homes, rent apartments, find shelter or keep their homes, as others in our community. Some of us will call that reality ‘unfair.’ Others will call it ‘discriminatory.’ And still others will say it’s ‘anti-Black racism’ or a reflection of ‘structural racism.’ We may not all agree on what to name it, but whatever you call it, let's agree not to take it into our shared future!”