Audi abandons gender in written communication
Audi will no longer use gender dividers in communication. The automaker is returning to traditional speech without underlining or other linguistic constructs for gender inclusion, SWR reported, citing a spokesman for Audi's Neckarzulm plant.
Here's What We Know
Back in 2021, Audi said it was introducing gender-sensitive language into its communication rules to emphasise diversity at the company. However, this approach has sparked internal controversy and even litigation. One Volkswagen employee, working with colleagues at Audi, sued over the forced use of gender-neutral language. In 2023, the Higher Land Court in Munich dismissed the lawsuit, but the company continued the debate.
Why did Audi change its mind? The official reason is practicality. Audi claims that the gendered language created problems when using texts from press releases in automatic translators and text readers. Therefore, the company decided to do away with underlining and other grammatical constructions that made the texts difficult to read.
However, Audi assures that the principles of equality and inclusion will not disappear. The company's internal culture will remain open to all, but now without language experiments.
Source: SWR
