Language matters:

Language matters:

At I.A.M., we do not use terms such as “inmate,” “convict,” “felon,” or “offender.” These labels reduce people to their worst moment and make it easier to deny them dignity, opportunity, and care.

We use people-first language because every person who has experienced incarceration is, first and always, a person.

We say “person who is incarcerated” or “formerly incarcerated person.” We say “person with a conviction.” We say their name.

As our founder, Lisette B. Hughes, writes, “Good Intentions Don’t Blunt the Impact of Dehumanizing Words.” Additionally, explore The Marshall Project’s Language Project for further perspectives on people-first language.