Valore D presents the book “Non solo parole” at the Turin Motor Show: collective reflection on the centrality of language for true inclusion

For 1 in 2 Italians it is essential to adopt an inclusive language

MILAN – “Not just words – Guide to a shared culture”, the publication created by D valueto celebrate the 15th anniversary of the association’s birth, it becomes a book, published by Feltrinelli Educationwhich will be presented at Turin International Book Fair Sunday 12 May.

“Not just words” born from the collaboration of D value with Feltrinelli Education and with the participation of the artists of Yoonik, tells the words that are or must become important to understand and live our society in a more inclusive way. Inside the book they are described and explored in depth 15 words which summarize the social and cultural commitment of Valore D since its early years of activity.

Accompanied by as many illustrations of different styles and approaches by the artists who participated in the project – a way to enrich the story through visual language – the 15 words are functional in overcoming stereotypes and prejudices, the result of a cultural heritage that contributes to creating discrimination and inequalities. Knowing words and using them correctly allows us to form thoughts and know how to represent reality with all the facets that enrich it, beyond the simplifications and schemes that we have inherited.

The release of the book is accompanied by survey data “Opinions and attitudes towards a more inclusive language” carried out by the D Observatory in collaboration with SWG on a representative sample of the Italian social fabric from which it can be deduced that:

1.The Llanguage it’s a’armto

Words have weight, they can include and can hurt, and that is why they must be known and used carefully. Over half (56%) of the sample interviewed thinks so, particularly in the over 55 group (62%). But for 17% – and in particular for one in 4 young people – language is considered something that is given a little too much importance and a limit that creates misunderstandings and does not allow one to express themselves at their best

2. Importance of defending freedom of expression

Over half of those interviewed believe that inclusive language is fundamental for a better society, 70% think that the integrity of the language must be defended from too many distortions today and from political correctness which has “tired” 3 out of 5 people.

3. Pay attention tofacade inclusiveness

The survey reveals that for many there is a risk of superficial inclusiveness and that the growing emphasis on words is not followed by real attention towards people. According to 54%, the ever-increasing attention to the use of words and inclusive and respectful language is just a communication trend rather than real attention towards people; less than one in three (31%) instead considers inclusiveness to be a new and authentic sensitivity compared to the past which is destined to grow.

4. Growth of lthenlanguagesor disrespectfulor

Social media (85%), sport (81%) and politics (80%) are the areas most ‘polluted’ by offensive and disrespectful words. But for 6 out of 10 Italians, lack of respect through language is also widespread at school and in the workplace.

“The words we use are much more than simple tools for communicating. They possess an intrinsic power to represent and influence the reality around us, shaping the way we think, act and perceive the world. Words are used to name concepts, ideas and objects, to categorize our experiences, build narratives and give meaning to the reality around us. But they also have the power to influence reality; the words we choose can motivate or demotivate, inspire or discourage, unite or divide, they can be used to build bridges of understanding or to erect walls of division. With “Not just words“as an association we would like to contribute to a better knowledge of the words that describe diversity and inclusion and to greater awareness in the way they are used, in every area and context, starting from us, to take a step forward as a society” – it is the comment by Barbara Falcomer General Director Valore D.