The Power of Language

Overview

Language is powerful. The words we choose have implicit meanings and impact people in ways we may be unaware of. We can be responsible for our impact and choose words that show we are open and welcoming. Engage with this resource when and as you need it. Remember, it is okay to not always get it right. However, having a willingness to learn and improve benefits everyone.

Using te reo Māori

Did you know that te reo Maori is one of New Zealands official languages? Don’t underestimate the power of saying “Kia ora”.

Further tips for using te reo Māori:

When using te reo Māori kupu (words) think about adding the english word in brackets following it.
Show respect when using te reo Māori kupu (words) by spelling them correctly, and using tohutō (macrons) correctly, or double vowels instead of macrons. Watch these YouTube videos for Windows 10 and Mac on how to add Macrons.

Avoiding add an ‘s’ to Māori kupu (words) to show plurals or possessives – the letter ‘s’ does not exist in te reo Māori.

Places to Visit

Te Aka Māori Dictionary is a great resource to double check spelling, tohutō (macrons) and meaning.
There is also a whole suite of kupu (words) that relate to kirikiti (cricket) (and more!) available on the Reo Māori Website.

Disability language

With a disability population of 25%, including 11% of young people under the age of 15, we need to ensure we can engage with them confidently.

In New Zealand, we use the term “disabled person” as outlined in the New Zealand Disability Strategy (rather than “person with a disability”). If you would like to understand more about why, you can read about it in this article.

“Tāngata whaikaha” is the Māori kupu used. Whaikaha is a strength-based term that means ‘to have ability’ or ‘to be enabled’.

Traditionally language used to talk about disabled people has been derogatory and ableist. Avoid this by using language that respects disabled people as active individuals with control over their own lives rather than victims.

If you would like more information and specific language advice check out this Making Communication Easy booklet from the Health and Disability Commissioner.

Gender neutral/Rainbow inclusive language

New Zealand’s rainbow communities are growing. One easy way we can show they are welcome and respected in cricket is through language.

Tips for using rainbow inclusive language:

Use gender-neutral pronouns (they/them) by default — especially if you’re writing about a hypothetical person or do not know a person’s pronoun. Assuming can be disrespectful.
Use a person’s pronouns once known.
Do not ask for people’s title or gender unless absolutely necessary. If you do require users to indicate their title or gender, allow multiple options, including gender-neutral options (like those available on PlayHQ registration).
Normalise gender neutral cricket terms - i.e. ‘batter’ not ‘batsman’.

For further guidance related to gender neutral/rainbow inclusive terminology visit the Public Service Commission.

If you feel that you have nailed language, you might want to check out these online learning modules to find out more.

As with all identity related language it is best to listen to how people refer to themselves and mirror that (use the same) language.

Names

It is important to respect and pronounce names accurately. In many instances names have deep significance and meaning. Therefore, pronouncing people’s names wrong can lead to people feeling insulted or not worth your time.

With the growing diversity of Aotearoa, it is no longer acceptable to assume that names sound? how they are written. There are multiple ways in which you could confirm the pronunciation of someone’s name. This could include saying their name and asking if you had pronounced it correctly or even waiting for them to introduce themselves.

Sometimes names are difficult and unique. Take the time to learn how to say it correctly. It is important to not ask for a nickname or shortening it yourself.