Inclusive Language for LGBTQ+ Communities

This rule promotes respectful and accepted terminology when referring to LGBTQ+ individuals and communities. It flags outdated or potentially offensive terms and suggests more appropriate, contemporary alternatives. The rule is important because language choices can significantly impact dignity, respect, and inclusion. Using appropriate terminology helps create a more welcoming and respectful environment while avoiding terms that the LGBTQ+ community has identified as problematic or outdated.

Examples:

• ✗ "The story features a homosexual man as the main character"
  ✓ "The story features a gay man as the main character"

• ✗ "She identifies as a homosexual woman"
  ✓ "She identifies as a lesbian"

• ✗ "This is a matter of sexual preference"
  ✓ "This is a matter of sexual orientation"

• ✗ "He is an admitted homosexual"
  ✓ "He is openly gay"

• ✗ "They are fighting for special rights"
  ✓ "They are fighting for equal rights"

The rule matches these phrases case-insensitively and can automatically suggest the more appropriate alternatives through Vale's replacement functionality.