Respecting Gender Identity: Using the Appropriate Pronouns and Names

Respecting an individual's gender identity is a fundamental aspect of being an inclusive and polite member of society. This includes using the gender pronouns and names that a person currently identifies with, regardless of their past or current medical status.

Use the Gender They Identify With, Not the Current Medical Status

It is important to use the gender pronouns and names that a person identifies with at the present time. This guidance applies to all individuals, regardless of whether they have started or completed any medical transitioning processes. The transition process can be a deeply personal and complex journey, and each individual may choose to identify with their gender in different ways at different stages of their life.

Using the Appropriate Pronouns: A Simple Guide

The key to respecting someone's gender identity is to use the pronouns and names they ask you to use. This is a straightforward and compassionate approach. It does not impose any unnecessary steps on the individual and helps them feel more comfortable and valued in social interactions. If you are unsure about the appropriate pronouns or name to use, you can always:

Avoid using any gendered pronouns and refer to the person by their name if you can. Politely ask the person which pronouns they prefer, provided that it doesn't make them uncomfortable.

By doing so, you show that you value their identity and respect their wishes, contributing to a more welcoming and inclusive environment.

Practical Examples of Respecting Gender Identity

When referring to someone who has transitioned, it's often useful to provide a clear context. For instance, you might mention their former name alongside the new one during the initial stages:

Wendy Carlos, who was born as Walter Carlos, has released an album in 1968 called Switched-On Bach. Today, she is referred to as Wendy and uses female pronouns.

Similarly, when writing an article or discussing someone who is transitioning or post-transition, you can use their current name and pronouns while mentioning their past identity if necessary:

Nicholas Stuart Gray, who was born female but transitioned to male in his 20s, has written several acclaimed works, including A Sceptred Maeu. He is currently referred to as Nicholas and uses male pronouns.

Understanding the Language of Gender Identity

Even a basic understanding of gender identity can go a long way in making one a more respectful and inclusive individual. For instance, you may encounter the term 'transgender,' which some might mistakenly consider a noun. However, 'transgender' is an adjective, not a noun. It is used to describe a person's gender identity and should be used appropriately.

Inclusive language and respect for an individual's gender identity can contribute positively to both personal and professional interactions. It is a simple directive that goes a long way in creating an environment where everyone feels recognized and valued.

By consistently using the gender pronouns and names that an individual prefers, you not only respect their identity but also contribute to a culture of inclusivity and understanding. This is not merely a social nicety but a fundamental element of human dignity and respect.