Gender Inclusive Language

Language is an important part of creating an environment where everyone feels welcome. Gender-inclusive (or gender-neutral) language is language that does not discriminate against gender identities and/or groups (Bent, 2019). 

The use of gendered language is tightly woven into everyday life and includes a variety of words and phrases.  Some examples include using pronouns like “he” or “she” as well as referring to groups of people as “guys”. Gendered language is used in everyday conversation without much thought and often without the intent of being sexist or exclusive. Groups of mixed gender or those who do not identify as binary male or female can feel left out of the conversations even when the speaker’s intent is benign. Imagine referring to a group of men and women as “gals”, would that go over well (Bent, 2019)? Even for those who do identify as male or female, constant reminders of gender may have an impact (Elsesser, 2020).  

Education is important in creating an inclusive and safe environment. Raising awareness is key to overcoming unconscious bias. For those trying to use more inclusive terms in everyday language, here are some suggestions for where to start, keep in mind using options that feel more natural will help the transition.

Referring to groups of people

o   Hey Folks

o   Hello All

o   People

o   Everyone/Everybody

o   Team

Using Individual Pronouns

o   Use the person’s name until they refer to themselves

o   Use “They” Instead of “He” or “She”     

o   Avoid saying "preferred" pronouns. "Preferred" implies someone's gender is a preference.

o   Introduce yourself with your own pronouns. “Hi, I’m Mary and my pronouns are she/her” this creates space for someone to share their pronouns if they choose.

o   Use “Mx” Instead Of “Mr,” “Ms,” “Mrs” or “Miss”.  It’s pronounced like mix. “Mx” provides individuals an alternative to being identified by their gender.

o   Use “Partner,” “Sibling” and “Child”. Like pronouns and titles, the labels we give family members, mother, father, brother, sister, aunt, uncle are all gendered. 

o   Use “Latinx” Instead Of “Latino” Or “Latina”. Pronounced Latin-ex this term refers to a person of Latin American descent. 

Referring to Occupations

o   Servers in place of waiter or waitress

o   Mail carrier 

o   Police officer

o   Firefighter

o   Chairperson

o   Flight Attendant

o   Business People

Moving away from a binary perspective on gender can take some effort. The language we use with each other is a powerful tool in building inclusivity and creating progress toward change. Small tweaks to language usage can go a long way to respect non-binary individuals and may have the additional benefit of increasing overall gender equality (Elsesser, 2020). 

References

Bent, S. (2019, April 19th). Blog. Retrieved from hotjar: https://www.hotjar.com/blog/gender-inclusive-language-workplace/

Elsesser, K. (2020, July 8). Editor's Pick. Retrieved from Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/kimelsesser/2020/07/08/how-to-use-gender-neutral-language-and-why-its-important-to-try/?sh=7fb13dff26ba