The benefits of plain language translation: Why it matters for nonprofits
As a leader in the nonprofit sector, I know you understand the importance of clear and effective communication. Whether you're fundraising, engaging volunteers, or advocating for a cause, your ability to communicate your message and value proposition makes all the difference.
One tool that can help you improve your communication is plain language translation. But what is plain language, and why is it so important for nonprofits?
Plain language is a way of writing and speaking that uses simple, clear, and concise language that is easy to understand. It avoids technical jargon, complicated sentence structures, and unnecessary words. Instead, it focuses on communicating information in a way that is accessible and meaningful to the intended audience.
Plain language has many benefits for nonprofits, including:
Greater accessibility and inclusivity: Plain language can make your communication more inclusive, especially for people with limited English proficiency, low literacy, or disabilities. By using plain language, you can ensure that your message is accessible to everyone and that you reach the broadest possible audience.
Increased clarity and effectiveness: By using plain language, you can ensure that your message is understood by many people, including those without experience with your organization or sector. This can help you communicate your value proposition more effectively and achieve your goals more quickly.
Enhanced engagement and trust: People who can easily understand your message are more likely to engage with it and take action. By using plain language, you can build trust and credibility with your stakeholders and foster stronger relationships.
For example, here is an academic definition of structural racism:
"Structural racism refers to how racial inequality is built into and perpetuated by the social, economic, and political systems and institutions that shape society. It involves allocating resources, opportunities, and privileges based on race and the exclusion and discrimination of racialized groups. Structural racism operates at the individual, institutional, and cultural levels. It has lasting and damaging impacts on racialized individuals and communities' health, well-being, and opportunities."
And here is that example translated at a grade 5 reading level:
"Structural racism is when the systems and places in our society mistreat some people because of their skin colour. This can mean giving some people more resources, opportunities, and privileges because of their skin colour, or keeping some people out or treating them unfairly because of their skin color. Structural racism happens at different levels, from individuals to institutions to culture. It has a long-lasting and harmful impact on the health, happiness, and opportunities of people of colour. "
At Golden Hour Consulting, we specialize in helping organizations use plain language to improve their communication and achieve their goals. Our team has the skills and experience to help you craft clear, concise, and compelling messages that will drive impact and success.
We'd love to chat if you're interested in learning more about how plain language translation can benefit your organization. So please don't hesitate to get in touch.
With gratitude,
