Pronoun Use
Pronouns are words that substitute for nouns. Personal pronouns are part of our everyday language, especially in the Romantic Languages. In English, we often refer to others using gendered pronouns (he/him/his; she/her/hers). The pronouns we select for a person are usually based on our assumptions of the person’s gender, based on their appearance or name. We can be easily mistaken and can cause unintentional harm by mispronouncing and misgendering someone.
People should be referred to by the pronouns which they identify with. Using the pronouns that a person asks for you to use is a way to show them respect and to create a more trans-inclusive environment. Using someone’s pronouns is about basic human dignity.
Having people automatically use the pronouns with which you identify is a part of having cisgender privilege. If you are cisgender, sharing your pronouns and using the pronouns that someone asks you to use are powerful ways to be an ally to the trans community.
Tips About Pronouns
- Do not refer to a person’s pronouns as their “preferred” pronouns or “gender” pronouns. Using “preferred” implies that a person’s pronoun selection is merely a preference and, therefore, something that is not required. Using “gender” ignores people who are agender.
- Always use the pronouns that a person asks you to use.
- When you make a mistake, ACT: Apologize > Correct > Try Again.
- Do not assume you know someone’s pronouns based on their name, the way they look, their voice, how they dress, or any other factor.
- If you don’t know someone’s pronouns, ask politely. Don’t just ask people who you assume are trans.
- Share your pronouns and create opportunities for people to share their pronouns, like in email signatures or at the beginning of meetings. Please note that some transgender and non-binary people will opt out of sharing as a means of self-protection.
FAQ
Visit MyPronouns.org for additional resources.
Information adapted from Michigan State University.