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are used within the English language when we speak about ourselves and each other. Most often, when we are speaking of a single person in the third person, personal pronouns have a gender implied (such as 鈥渟he鈥� to refer to a woman/girl or 鈥渉e鈥� to refer to a man/boy, however, more and more there are those of us who use neutral or non-gender specific pronouns (like the singular they/them/their).

People often make assumptions about the gender of other people based on their appearance. These assumptions can be wrong and, when wrong, have the potential to be harmful. What鈥檚 important here is respecting each other鈥檚 personal pronoun use. This not only shows respect, but it works to build trust and inclusivity. Choosing to ignore someone鈥檚 pronouns could imply that intersex, transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming people do not or should not exist. 

What鈥檚 important is respecting everyone, their pronouns and using them correctly. 

• How do I know someone鈥檚 pronouns? 

You can鈥檛 tell someone's name or pronouns just by looking at them. The best way to know is to ask. 

You can also model the kind of introduction you are looking for by sharing your name and pronouns and then asking them, 鈥淲hat鈥檚 your name and pronouns?鈥� or 鈥淗ow should I refer to you?鈥�.

If someone takes the time to share their name and/or pronouns with you, use it. 

• What if I use the wrong pronouns?

Apologize when you make a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes and that鈥檚 okay. If and when someone points out a mistake that you鈥檝e made, acknowledge the harm that was done, apologize and move on. Remember, it鈥檚 about the and not your intent. If you need to, practice so that the person鈥檚 pronouns become second nature.