A discussion on how language impacts perception of transportation, equity, and objectivity. Presenter: Leslie Carlson

2. Encouraging new modes
Oregon Active
Transportation Summit
March 14, 2016

3. project overviewoverview
A balancing act

4. Talking Transportation
Oregon Active
Transportation Summit
March 14, 2016
We’re all multi-modal

5. getting results
• An everyday activity
• Encouraging and inclusive
• Address barriers
• Emphasize the benefits to people

6. Talking Transportation
Oregon Active
Transportation Summit
March 14, 2016
We’re all multi-modal
Make it common and everyday

7. an everyday thing
• “People walking, biking and riding transit.”
• “How do you get around?”
• No tall bikes
• Kids are the gateway drug

8. Talking Transportation
Oregon Active
Transportation Summit
March 14, 2016
Make it common and everydayMake it attainable/address barriers

9. positive, regular language
• “Try taking the bus”
• “Today is a good day for walking”
• “Riding a bike is an option”

10. know & overcome barriers
• Safety
• Infrastructure
• Equipment
• Life station
• Habit

11. Language that includes

12. inclusive
• Avoid judgment (“Smart” “Easy”)
• Use neutral words/facts (“Convenient” “Save time”)
• Don’t shame
• You’re here to help
• You are not the target audience
• Casual use can lead to regular use

13. better words
Worse Better
Accidents, Incidents Crashes, collisions
The car hit the… The person driving hit…
Cyclists People riding/on bikes
Drivers People driving
Pedestrians People walking
Alternative transportation Travel option
Mode Walking, biking, taking transit,
sharing a ride or driving
Commuters People traveling to work
Citizens Residents
Cycle tracks Protected bikeways

14. use the benefits
• Saving money and time
• No parking hassles
• Outlook/health
• Experiencing your community first hand
• Interactions with people
• Time with friends/family
• No traffic jams

15. Thank you
Leslie@brinkcomm.com