Latin@. Womxn. Afrofuturism. Chicanx.
Colorism.
These are among 300 new words just added by Dictionary.com, many of which the organization says “spotlight more inclusive and empowered identity and cultural terms that have gained traction in recent years.” These changes in our language serve to embrace and acknowledge the inevitable and rapid changing demographics in the US and globally.
As a Latino
gay man and someone who has worked in the diversity and inclusion space for
decades, these additions are personally affirming. They add light and
credibility to my reality and personal experience. The world I grew up in
demanded that I change and fit in if I wanted to be accepted. I still hear
comments like, “They’re only words--what’s the big deal?” Well, these words are
powerful and can send a strong message that can be either dismissive or
engaging.