Writers urged to break away from sexist terms

Press, 20 August 1986, Page 47

Writers urged to break away from sexist terms

NZPA-AP Washington A group concerned about women’s rights is urging writers to rid their prose of sexist stereotypes by refraining from such words as “kingpin,” “weatherman,” and “coed.”

A four-page “Guide to non-sexist language” from the project on the status and education of women gives a long list of does and don’ts for the nondiscriminating writer. The project, run by the Association of American Colleges, advises authors: “Breaking away from sexist language and traditional patterns can refresh your style. “With a little thought, you can use accurate, lively, figurative language in your classrooms (and) publications ... and still

represent people fairly,” it says. The project offers general rules for non-sexist usage, such as using plural nouns and pronouns, alternating male and female pronouns or using them both in a text, such as, “to the best of her or his ability.” Its forbidden list, and suggested substitutes, include: businessman, executive: cameraman, photographer; craftsman, craftsperson or artisan; draftsman, drafter; fireman, firefighter, headmaster, principal; kingpin, key person or leader; manmade, manufactured or handmade; night watchman, night guard; policeman, police officer; salesman, salesperson or sales agent; sportsmanship, fair play; statesman-

ship, diplomacy; weatherman, weather reporter or meteorologist. It frowns on such words or phrases as: male nurse, authoress, aviatrix, coed, maid, and waitress. In their place, it offers such unisex substitutes as: nurse, author, aviator, student, housekeeper, and waiter or “wait person.” In the project’s book, there should be no mention of the “founding fathers,” and no-one ever went on a ‘maiden voyage.” Instead, children should learn about the “pioneers, colonists, patriots, forebears (or) founders,” and ships go on a first or premier voyage. “Man-to-man defence" also draws a flag from the project It suggests "one-to-one” or “player-to-player” as substitutes.