The head of the Duden language authority, Laura Neuhaus, acknowledges the significant resistance surrounding the use of colons or underscores in gender-inclusive language. Speaking to MDR Aktuell, Neuhaus emphasized that language is inherently an emotionally charged topic, inevitably provoking questions about the nature of change and its impact on personal expression. She noted that individuals may elect not to participate in linguistic evolution and that the Duden maintains a relaxed, observational stance regarding these shifts.
Neuhaus underscored the constant evolution of language throughout history, pointing out that contemporary speech differs substantially from the language used by literary figures like Goethe and Schiller. “Linguistic change is, on the one hand, a reflection of societal development” she stated. “On the other hand, it’s something that goes beyond that. Language is a tool and selecting a particular formulation is ultimately a personal stylistic choice that deserves consideration.
Reaffirming the Duden’s adherence to the recommendations of the Council for German Orthography, Neuhaus confirmed that special characters such as asterisks, colons and underscores are not considered core elements of German spelling. While acknowledging their increasing usage, particularly when referring to non-binary individuals, she stressed the importance of not defining the discussion of gendered language solely through these symbols. “It’s important not to reduce the topic of gender to these special characters, which are so heavily debated” she stated. Neuhaus further highlighted the numerous other avenues for expressing inclusivity and sensitivity within the richness of the German language, citing examples such as “member” “people” “person” or “leadership”.