Handle them carefully, for words have more power than atom bombs. –Pearl Strachan Hurd

Language is a powerful weapon and tool. Like any weapon, when language is wielded without care there may be unintended results, and philanthropy is no exception. Due to the funder and nonprofit power dynamic, foundation language choice sets the tone for individual grantee relationships and to a certain extent the sector at large.  Unfortunately, many of the current taglines, words and narratives used in philanthropy reinforce the disempowering stigmas associated with poverty.

For example, it is extremely common to read nonprofit requests for proposals or even foundation mission statements that talk about helping “underprivileged youth” who are “disadvantaged.” Although not intentionally malicious, this language emphasizes poverty first and the individual person second.  Other common disenfranchising labels used in the sector include “underserved”, “downtrodden” and “needy.” The labels are pervasive and akin to hyperbolic clickbait – they grab the attention and sympathy of donors but in an exploitative way that links poverty with helplessness.

Disenfranchising language is problematic on many fronts even if it is unintentional. However, if you want to communicate more effectively without undermining your good intentions there are several steps you can take to minimize unintended results.

Forgo Heroism. Exploitative language builds a narrative of grant makers as heroes rescuing the helpless. Yet the success of foundations, nonprofits, and communities are interdependent.  To make real strides, put aside the hero complex and choose words that recognize the wisdom and assets of individuals who are living in conditions of poverty.  

Support Powerful Language. When grant makers fund programs that use tacitly demeaning language to tug on the heartstrings this commodifies people in poverty. Many nonprofits will continue to use this language if it delivers funding outcomes. Put another way, funding proposals with exploitative language incentivizes nonprofits to sell out their clients. Discard your own use of exploitative language and encourage more powerful language from nonprofits.

Remain Vigilant to Bias. Sadly, many in the sector use images and narratives of people of color living in poverty to raise dollars while subtly reinforcing racial bias. Choose your words carefully to avoid perpetuating unfair stereotypes or talking about people of color in an extractive way.  Instead, select language that elevates and acknowledges leadership within communities of color.

Ask for Permission.  If you fund different communities than those with which you identify, assume a learning approach. Ask nonprofits how they refer to the beneficiaries of their programs and why they make those language choices. Find out if they ask clients what descriptors or labels are appropriate. If not, is it an oversight or intentional? The easiest way to find out how to refer to someone without creating harm is to ask.

Regardless of your organization’s mission statement many foundation staff and officers enter this work to make a difference and help others.  These are worthy goals, but the positional power of philanthropy demands ongoing self-examination and accountability to the same communities and individuals it seeks to serve.  Cultivating a deep awareness of language choice is essential. Fortunately, constant humility, vigilance and a learning orientation will help you choose the right words in the right moment.