To Clarify…
- Sex refers to a person's biological status and is typically assigned at birth, usually on the basis of external anatomy. Sex is generally categorized as male, female, or intersex.
- Gender is often defined as a social construct of norms, behaviors, and roles that varies between societies and over time. Gender is often categorized as male, female, or nonbinary.
- Gender identity is one's own internal sense of self and gender, whether that is man, woman, neither, or both. Unlike gender expression, gender identity is not outwardly visible to others.
- Cisgender, or cis, is an adjective that describes a person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.
- Transgender, or trans, is an adjective used to describe someone whose gender identity differs from the sex assigned at birth. A transgender man, for example, is someone who was listed as female at birth but who identifies as male. A transgender woman is someone who was listed as a male at birth but identifies as female.
- Nonbinary is a term that can be used by people who do not describe themselves or their genders as fitting into the categories of man or woman. A range of terms are used to refer to these experiences; nonbinary and genderqueer are among the numerous terms that might be used.
What are pronouns?
- Pronouns are the words you may like others to use for you in place of your proper name. Gendered examples include “she/her” or “he/him.” Gender-neutral pronouns include “ze/hir” [pronounced: zee/heer] or “they/them.” Some people use specific pronouns, any pronouns, or none at all. Here is an example of using “they/them” in a sentence: Bill is substituting for me today, and they are a phenomenal instructor.
- Using singular “they” pronouns have been used in the English language for centuries. If you are still struggling with using this, remember that it takes time and practice!
- Asking about and using a person's pronouns shows inclusivity by not assuming their gender identity based on how they express or present themselves. Sharing your pronouns first in a conversation also lets the person know it's safe to share their pronouns.
What if I make a mistake or misgender?
- Misgendering refers to the experience of being labeled by others as a gender other than the one that a person identifies with. Because many, but not all, associate their pronouns with their gender identity, using the wrong pronouns intentionally or unintentionally is a type of misgendering. If you accidentally use the wrong pronoun when identifying someone, please apologize or say “thank you” and immediately use the right pronoun.
- Everyone makes mistakes. Please take accountability for your mistake and continue using the correct pronoun. The important thing to be mindful of is to not unload your guilty feelings on transgender, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming people or expect forgiveness. They might have a strong reaction to the misuse of their pronouns and need space to recenter themselves. It may be hard on you to adjust to the change, but imagine how much harder it is for them to go through the change.
How do I show support?
- Start a conversation by introducing yourself with your pronouns
- Include your pronouns in your email signature or on your name tag
- PRACTICE!
- Use gender-neutral language when addressing groups of people
- Do use: folks, friends, all, y'all, beautiful people, team, fam, "theydies and gentlethems", or rad jazz cats
- Don't use: guys, ladies, sir, ma'am, brothers, or sisters
- Use descriptive terms to describe someone rather than their expressive gender
- Example: "Could you bring this folder to the individual wearing the orange shirt with long brown hair over there?
- Do your research!
- If you're unsure of something related to pronouns or gender:
Sources:
https://www.glsen.org/activity/pronouns-guide-glsen https://www.npr.org/2021/06/02/996319297/gender-identity-pronouns-expression-guide-lgbtq