LINGUISTIC INCLUSIVENESS
This project focuses on the linguistic inclusion and on the non-discriminatory language, with a multidisciplinary approach. Indeed, access to information is a right that must be observed also for those people who are not able to use a standard or specialistic language (like foreigners, people with disabilities, or people who have reading difficulties).
This project focuses on promoting linguistic simplification, starting from the so called “easy language”, to the study of linguistic strategies to encourage equality and non-discrimination thanks to linguistic and juridical skills.
TEAM
WHAT DO WE DO
INIZIATIVE
NON-DISCRIMINATORY LANGUAGE AND EASY LANGUAGE
Interview with Valentina Crestani, associated professor in Language and Translation – German, and Costanza Nardocci, assistant professor in Constitutional Law
How is the idea of “linguistic inclusiveness” included in the project?
Nardocci- The project moves on two lines. The first one is about nondiscriminatory language, with a specific focus on gender and disability. We already collaborate with institutions and bodies, including the Comune di Milano, to offer training and promote an inclusive language. The second one, the most innovative, is the one of “easy language”.
What is it?
Crestani – Easy language moves from the idea that linguistic simplification is a means to make information more accessible, and so, useful to fight discrimination. It shouldn’t be confused with the concept of “simple language” that has a lower level of regulation. It addresses mainly to people with disabilities, but it could be used by those people who are affected by learning difficulties and foreigners too. In some countries, such as Germany, it is already used and studied, while in Italy it still is a niche topic. That’s why we need to spread knowledge.
Which are the challenges faced by the easy language?
Crestani – One of the most important ones is understanding how to use the right language, keeping all the information preserved. The risk is to reduce or modify the information.
Why is linguistics intertwined with law, easy language with rights?
Nardocci – Because the access to information depends on the language. And the access to information must be democratic, especially when we speak about topics of public social utility. Right now, in Italy there isn’t a specific legislation about the discriminatory language or the “easy language”. In both cases we want to widen the search beyond the National reality, to make concrete proposals that can bring Italy at the same level of the other European countries.
How is the idea of “linguistic inclusiveness” included in the project?
Nardocci- The project moves on two lines. The first one is about nondiscriminatory language, with a specific focus on gender and disability. We already collaborate with institutions and bodies, including the Comune di Milano, to offer training and promote an inclusive language. The second one, the most innovative, is the one of “easy language”.
What is it?
Crestani – Easy language moves from the idea that linguistic simplification is a means to make information more accessible, and so, useful to fight discrimination. It shouldn’t be confused with the concept of “simple language” that has a lower level of regulation. It addresses mainly to people with disabilities, but it could be used by those people who are affected by learning difficulties and foreigners too. In some countries, such as Germany, it is already used and studied, while in Italy it still is a niche topic. That’s why we need to spread knowledge.
Which are the challenges faced by the easy language?
Crestani – One of the most important ones is understanding how to use the right language, keeping all the information preserved. The risk is to reduce or modify the information.
Why is linguistics intertwined with law, easy language with rights?
Nardocci – Because the access to information depends on the language. And the access to information must be democratic, especially when we speak about topics of public social utility. Right now, in Italy there isn’t a specific legislation about the discriminatory language or the “easy language”. In both cases we want to widen the search beyond the National reality, to make concrete proposals that can bring Italy at the same level of the other European countries.
Valentina Crestani, Costanza Nardocci, Rossella Settanni
