WORDS MATTER NYC
Speak With Care. A New York Language
Words Move Fast in NYC. Let’s Use Them With Care
Every Word Builds Something — Trust, Connection, or Distance. Choose Carefully
Let’s Change How We Talk
We help New Yorkers recognize language bias, reduce harm, and build trust through more respectful, inclusive communication — whether in classrooms, workplaces, or neighborhoods. From digital resources to hands-on workshops, everything we create is built for real conversations and real impact.
Explore how you, your school, or your organization can help shape a city that speaks with care — and builds connection through trust.
What We’re Putting Into the Conversation
From pledges to workshops, each offering is designed to turn awareness into action—helping New Yorkers speak with care, wherever they are.
“Speak With Care” Pledge & Toolkit
The “Speak With Care” Pledge and Toolkit offer a personal and collective step toward more inclusive language. With tips, examples, and reflection prompts, this free resource helps New Yorkers recognize harm in everyday talk—and choose words that build connection instead of division.
School & Youth Activation Kit
Designed for middle and high school communities, this kit includes posters, activities, and conversation starters that make respectful communication tangible. It helps students, teachers, and families create language-conscious spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and empowered to speak up with care.
Community Workshops & Trainings
Our workshops and trainings bring people together to unpack language bias and build communication habits rooted in empathy. Whether you're part of a nonprofit, school, or neighborhood group, we create space for honest dialogue—and offer tools to keep the momentum going.
Why We Speak With Care
Words Matter NYC was built by and for New Yorkers who believe communication can be a force for trust and connection. Learn more about the people behind the work, what fuels our mission, and how we’re using creativity, care, and culture to change the way our city speaks — one word at a time.
Why It Matters
This movement isn’t just about words — it’s about how we live together. Here’s what makes it meaningful.
Everyday Language, Real Impact
Small words carry big weight. We help New Yorkers see how language shapes safety, respect, and everyday belonging.
Rooted in Real Communities
Created by New Yorkers, for New Yorkers — every resource reflects real voices, local culture, and lived city experiences.
Not Just Awareness — Action
We turn values into action with toolkits, trainings, and activations that make respectful communication part of daily life.
Seen, Heard, and Shared
Our bold designs and clear messaging help carry civic values into conversations, classrooms, commutes, and community spaces.