As one small way to honour Pride Month 2020, here's a rundown on pronouns from our YMCA's Diversity & Social Inclusion team: what they are, why they're important, and how you can make sure you're using them in a way that's inclusive and respectful.
What's a pronoun?
Pronouns are words we often use to refer to other people: e.g., “He”, “him”, “she”, and “her." Some people use non-binary pronouns like “they”, “them”, “ze”, or “hir”. Some don't identify with any pronouns and want to be called by their name.
Why does it matter?
Gender identity is a person’s internal and individual experience of gender, and we can make mistakes by assuming someone’s pronouns based on their appearance or name. Guessing can be offensive if we end up using pronouns that don't align with how someone wants to be referred to. So, it's important to make an effort to learn people's pronouns and to use them correctly and consistently.
How can I learn someone’s pronouns?
Start by sharing your own pronouns — for example, include them when you introduce yourself, just as you would include your name. Sharing your pronouns shows you're open to learning someone else's. Not everyone will be comfortable sharing in return; if you're unsure, refer to them by name. When you do learn someone else's pronouns, commit them to memory. If you make a mistake, apologize, correct yourself, and commit to remembering in the future.
By sharing your pronouns, and by learning someone else's, you're demonstrating your intention to create an accepting, inclusive environment for everyone. To learn more about inclusive language, check out mypronouns.org.
What's a pronoun?
Pronouns are words we often use to refer to other people: e.g., “He”, “him”, “she”, and “her." Some people use non-binary pronouns like “they”, “them”, “ze”, or “hir”. Some don't identify with any pronouns and want to be called by their name.
Why does it matter?
Gender identity is a person’s internal and individual experience of gender, and we can make mistakes by assuming someone’s pronouns based on their appearance or name. Guessing can be offensive if we end up using pronouns that don't align with how someone wants to be referred to. So, it's important to make an effort to learn people's pronouns and to use them correctly and consistently.
How can I learn someone’s pronouns?
Start by sharing your own pronouns — for example, include them when you introduce yourself, just as you would include your name. Sharing your pronouns shows you're open to learning someone else's. Not everyone will be comfortable sharing in return; if you're unsure, refer to them by name. When you do learn someone else's pronouns, commit them to memory. If you make a mistake, apologize, correct yourself, and commit to remembering in the future.
By sharing your pronouns, and by learning someone else's, you're demonstrating your intention to create an accepting, inclusive environment for everyone. To learn more about inclusive language, check out mypronouns.org.
