Words matter.
Make yours inclusive.
Our Indigenous Communications Toolkit is rooted in respect for Indigenous cultures and grounded in broader commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Whether you’re crafting policies, social content, marketing, or daily emails, this guide will help you communicate with clarity, care, and cultural respect.
What You’ll Find Inside
This toolkit is not a rulebook. It’s a starting point and a tool to spark reflection, conversation, and growth.
Tips for language that honours Indigenous identities
Common missteps and how to avoid them
Inclusive alternatives to everyday phrases
Context behind terms and why they matter
Want to be more inclusive but don’t know how?
Using inclusive language is about being present and intentional, not about being perfect. In today’s landscape, especially as conversations around reconciliation and equity deepen, our words can either open doors or reinforce barriers. By choosing language that respects identity, acknowledges history, and centres humanity, we begin to shift not just how we speak, but how we relate to one another.
This toolkit is here to support that shift, offering tools, context, and clarity to help you communicate with care.
Start where you are.
Grow with intention.
This Inclusive language is a step towards reconciliation and allyship, and a resource for inclusion in action.
- Teams updating public messaging
- People confused by evolving terms
- Newcomers to inclusive communication
- Groups aiming to avoid exclusion
- Leaders committed to respect and inclusion
- Content creators seeking clear language guidance
Crafted with care
Design de Plume in an Indigenous and women-owned creative agency that creates inclusive and accessible design solutions. Since 2009, we’ve partnered with organizations in education, government, healthcare, and the arts to create inclusive, accessible, and culturally respectful designs.
This toolkit grew from our commitment to equity, our lived experience, and our work amplifying Indigenous voices. We believe language shapes how we relate to one another and that inclusive communication is a powerful step toward reconciliation and connection. Rooted in collaboration and cultural humility, this guide reflects the values we bring to every project, and we’re honoured to share it with you.
