How to Build an Inclusive Discord Community

Inclusive communities attract and retain more members because people stay where they feel welcome. Here's how to build one intentionally.

Start With Your Rules

Your rules should explicitly state that harassment based on identity is not tolerated:

• Race, ethnicity, nationality
• Gender identity and expression
• Sexual orientation
• Disability
• Religion
• Age

Be specific. "Be nice" is not enough — name the protected characteristics.

Pronoun Roles

Offer optional pronoun roles so members can share their pronouns without private disclosure:

• She/Her · He/Him · They/Them · Any Pronouns · Ask Me

Using reaction roles makes this easy and stigma-free.

Accessible Design

• Use plain language in rules and guides — not everyone is a native English speaker
• Avoid exclusive memes or references as insider gatekeeping
• Provide text alternatives to voice events when possible
• Don't make certain content only accessible through complex bot commands

Moderation That Protects Everyone Equally

• Apply the same standards to popular members as to new ones
• Don't dismiss reports about "well-liked" members
• Train mods on recognising subtle forms of harassment
• Have a zero-tolerance policy for slurs — not "depends on context"

Language Matters

• Use gender-neutral language by default ("everyone" not "guys")
• Correct misgendering calmly if it happens
• Avoid "crazy," "lame," and similar terms that use disability as insults

Creating Belonging

• Feature diverse members in spotlights
• Celebrate different cultural events and holidays
• Ask for feedback from quieter members specifically
• Create spaces for different backgrounds to share their perspectives

Inclusive communities grow by word of mouth. List yours on Discords.ai and describe what makes it welcoming.

Related: How to Build Community Culture on Discord · Discord Community Guidelines Writing Guide