I choose to assume that when Clarkies utilize the term “all-inclusive” that their intentions are good. However, when the constant usage of the term is repeatedly used wrong, I can not make this assumption and have to look at situations as what they really are: damaging. 

The term inclusivity refers to the practice of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized. Therefore, when a club or organization advertises itself as being “all-inclusive”, one would think that they follow the definition of what inclusivity is. This is often not the case.

 Throughout my four years at Clark I have noticed that when a club or organization references itself as being “all-inclusive” what they really mean is they are inclusive for cisgendered and AFAB (assigned female at birth) individuals only. That is not what inclusivity is. When you alter the definition of inclusivity to refer to the inclusion of  “female-identifying people” and then note nonbinary people, you are actually committing more damage than you are resolving. 

Latching the word nonbinary into your explanation of inclusivity does not inherently make your club any more inclusive, especially when there is an overemphasis on the specification of a “female” space. Rather, it exposes a lens that only views nonbinary people as “female plus” rather than a separate entity altogether. To further emphasize my point, it appears that only feminine oriented clubs feel the need to describe themselves in this way. You cannot use nonbinary people as a way of making your club appear welcoming, just be more welcoming – I am looking directly at you acapella groups and club sports. 

If you want to actually be all-inclusive, re-educate yourself on the definition of the term and do better to actually make your clubs and organizations a welcoming space for all people, regardless of the way they present themselves or identify. Trans and non-binary people owe you nothing, and deserve better than to be used only as a means to make your club appear more diverse.