Make it Easy Kia Māmā Mai |
People First New Zealand
Ngā Tāngata Tuatahi

Document name

Rainbow Easy Read: Rainbow words and identities

Judges’ comments

The judges found this document to be a very good example of plain writing and information design. It makes important and complex information about rainbow words and identities easy to understand.

The content is helpful, accurate, and well-suited for its audience. The judges noted that it was an impressive achievement to condense so much information into the document.

The writing is a key strength. The sentences are short and straightforward, and the paragraphs are focused on one topic. The document uses familiar and simple words to explain technical terms used by the rainbow community. A consistent and professional tone makes the information very easy to read.

The document is structured into logical sections. The judges were also impressed with the thorough co-design and user-testing process. The creators involved representative audiences, including people with learning disabilities and rainbow identities, to shape and improve the final document. This helps ensure the target audience can find, understand, and use the information with confidence.

Media statement

We are delighted to be a finalist for the Best Plain Language Document — Private Sector award with our Easy Read guide Rainbow Easy Read: Rainbow words and identities.

The guide introduces words like ‘lesbian’ and ‘asexual’ and ‘transgender’, using simplified language and images to explain their meaning.

We knew there was a lack of accessible information about and for rainbow / LGBTQIA+ communities. Working together with people with learning disability to create the Rainbow Easy Read guides made this clear. Without resources like this, many find it hard to find their communities, support their friends and whānau, and know that there are others who share their experiences.

Rainbow words and identities is one of a suite of eight Easy Read guides created for and about rainbow communities.

We’d like to thank the Rule Foundation, whose funding made this project possible, and everyone who advised and supported us along the way.

The positive response to this Easy Read guide has been heartening and reinforced its importance. We are very proud to be recognised as a finalist in this year’s Plain Language Awards.

Andi Buchanan
Team Lead
Make it Easy Kia Māmā Mai | People First New Zealand Ngā Tāngata Tuatahi