International Plain Language Day

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By Scott Fry

It might not have your office singing “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” but October 13 is International Plain Language Day – and it’s something for Communicators to celebrate.

US President Barack Obama signed the Plain Writing Act of 2010, on October 13. This act requires federal agencies to use "clear Government communication that the public can understand and use." (http://www.plainlanguage.gov/plLaw/index.cfm)

The day is being celebrated internationally by advocates online (http://www.plainlanguagenetwork.org/), in social media (http://www.facebook.com/internationalplainlanguageday) and through a variety of events, including many here in Toronto.

The power of simple language can easily be forgotten when dealing with the complex issues of professional communications. It can also be easily trivialized in our profession when we talk about concepts like ‘writing for grade level.’ Plain language is not about reducing a message; it is about raising our language up so that it can be universally understood, and therefore have the greatest impact.

As professional communicators we work hard to ensure that we provide value in our roles. Regardless of what we communicate, the ability to be clearly understood is crucial. The use of plain language provides a foundation for understanding, and should be the foundation of how we communicate.

So celebrate communicators, for October 13 is our day. Others in your office may question your celebration, but they will not question the benefits of being understood in everything you help them communicate.

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