Friday Facts: Pronouns

Posted on Thursday, June 6th, 2019

Pronouns are used in every day speech and writing to take the place of people’s names. We frequently use them without thinking about it. Often, when speaking of someone in the third person, these pronouns have a gender implied.

Below is a list of some commonly used pronouns and how they are used:

This is not an exhaustive list.

This is your invitation to start using respectful pronouns for all! It is important to give people the opportunity to state the pronoun that is correct to use when referring to them. To set the tone for respecting people’s identifications, consider asking any of these questions:

• “What pronouns do you use?”
• “How would you like me to refer to you?”
• “How would you like to be addressed?”
• “Can you remind me which pronouns you like for yourself?”
• “My name is Sarah and my pronouns are she, her and hers. “
• Wear a button or badge with your pronouns listed
• Add your pronouns to your email signature

If you are communicating with someone who is transgender, non binary or gender nonconforming, starting with introducing your pronouns and/or asking their preferred pronouns is a great way to help everyone communicate inclusively as well as a chance for you to signal your support and allyship.

If you are looking for a more detailed resource for pronoun use, do’s and don’ts, and a few really helpful tips for LGBTQ2+ inclusive language, we highly recommend visiting the 519 Media Guide found here: https://the519mediaguide.org/topics-in-focus/pronouns/

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