In recent years, there has been an increase in gender expansive nomenclature. The binary reference of he or she can no longer apply to someone who does not fall under one such category such as transgender, non-binary, or gender non-conforming. Referring to someone with the wrong pronoun is not only incorrect but also harmful as it can lead to feelings of exclusion for the people who do not identify as a male or female, and as well as future depression and anxiety issues. The English language does not include any binary reference to people who do not categorize themselves as male or female. However, it has been progressively gaining more attention as people become aware of the way they address others. “They” has been officially recognized by a multitude of key bodies such as the Associated press, Chicago Manual of Style, which notes that “they” in its singular form can be used in informal conversation.
Importance of Pronouns
Pronouns are important because by using a person’s pronoun correctly, it demonstrates that we respect their preferences. It offers an inclusive environment for a range of gender expressions and identities. Various studies demonstrate that affirming a person’s pronoun can lead to lowered depression, reduced suicidal ideation, and raise in self-esteem. Thus, by using more gender neutral pronouns, the negative effects of societal repression can decrease.
History of Gender-neutral pronouns.
Gender neutral pronouns are not a modern revelation but has a long and vast history. Examples of singular “They” appear in various literature and text such as Wycliffe’s translation of the Bible (1392), used in description of features in Geoffrey Chaucer’s, The Canterbury Tales in 1386, and as well as various Shakespeare work such as Much ado about nothing or Hamlet in 1599. Literary authors like Jane Austen used “they” and “them” as early as the 17th century in her novel Pride and Prejudice. It should be noted that only recently the dangers of misusing pronouns have and gained traction with the changing conception of gender and growing acceptance of the society of non-binary individuals. As a result, pronouns are being more widely discussed.
How to be respectful and inclusive
Try to use gender-neutral pronouns such as already mentioned “they, them and theirs.” Pronouns such as “ze, sie, zie, hir” which are used less often, can also be used. Gendered Honorifics like “Ms.”, “Mrs.” or “Mr.” can be changed to something more inclusive such as“Mx.” (pronounce Mix).
If you are unsure, you can either kindly ask for the other person's pronouns or introduce yourself with your pronouns, hence inviting a conversation where the other person gives their pronouns if they so choose.
Additionally, having pronouns on email signatures and business cards can facilitate normalizing or correctly using pronouns and nurture an inclusive atmosphere.
If you make mistakes, it is understandable. Apologize, learn, and move on. If something like that occurs in group setting it is advisable to apologize later in private as most people do not like to draw attention.
What does it stand for in society?
We are witnessing a restructuring of gender pronouns with the hopes of being more inclusive in our language. It is understandable to make mistakes. However, not learning from those mistakes and repeating them again and again is not right. In correct usage of pronouns, we are advocating for equality and facilitating in lowering the social suppression caused by the misuse of pronouns.
Sources:
“Gender Pronouns: Importance and How to Be Inclusive.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/gender-pronouns.
Purdue Writing Lab. “Gendered Pronouns & Singular ‘They’ // Purdue Writing Lab.” Purdue Writing Lab, owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/grammar/pronouns/gendered_pronouns_and_singular_they.html#:~:text=A%20pronoun%20can%20refer%20to,while%20she%20refers%20to%20females.
“Understanding Pronouns.” LGBT Life Center, lgbtlifecenter.org/pronouns/.
“What Are Gender Pronouns? Why Do They Matter?” National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.edi.nih.gov/blog/communities/what-are-gender-pronouns-why-do-they-matter#:~:text=Using%20appropriate%20pronouns%20is%20a,pronouns%20respected%20in%20the%20workplace.
Published April 24, 2021
Written by Kalyan Madoori ~ Edited by Farah Mourad
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