styleguide

RACE-RELATED AND ETHNIC REFERENCES

As the AP Stylebook notes, writing about race-related issues “calls for thoughtful consideration, precise language, and discussions with others of diverse backgrounds whenever possible” about “what language is most appropriate, accurate and fair.” Seek to avoid broad labels and generalizations—remember that “race and ethnicity are one part of a person’s identity,” and be aware that […]

quotations

Less is more when crafting direct quotes. Paraphrase easily verifiable facts; save direct quotes for opinion-type statements. How to punctuate quotes: Inset quotes: For longer quoted material, such as song lyrics, poetry, or a block quotation from a text, indent/inset the quote and don’t use quotation marks or italics. (Chicago style) If attribution is not included elsewhere, it […]

quotation marks

See punctuation

queer

See gender and sexuality references

PUNCTUATION

provinces

Use Roman numerals when referring to provinces within The Episcopal Church: The Episcopal Church’s newest province is Province IX.  

pronouns

Do not assume “he/him” or “she/her” when referring to someone. When possible, check with a person on their pronoun usage (some people include their pronouns in their email signatures). “They/them” is acceptable as a gender-neutral pronoun in cases where other wording would be awkward, though rewording (or using the person’s name) to avoid confusion is […]

Pride / pride

Capitalize in reference to organizations or events honoring LGBTQ+ communities; lowercase for generic events or general concept of LGBTQ+ pride. River City Pride. “Are you going to Pride?” he asked. It’s Pride day. Several towns are holding Pride events this week. We plan to attend a gay pride parade. See also gender and sexuality references

presiding bishop

Capitalize when it precedes a proper name; lowercase in all other uses. A presiding bishop can also be referred to as the Most Rev. before a name. The webinar will feature Presiding Bishop and Primate Sean Rowe. The webinar’s panel will include the presiding bishop and other Episcopal clergy. The Most Rev. Sean Rowe, presiding bishop and primate of […]

poor

Seek to avoid references to “the poor” or “poor people.” Use “low income,” “people living at the poverty level,” “people living in poverty,” “people experiencing poverty.” The poverty level in the U.S. is the income level deemed insufficient for a family or individual to have essential items for living. The U.S. poverty level is adjusted […]