Inclusive Language for Facilitators

Sharing Pronouns

Sharing your pronouns with your name normalizes talking about pronouns.

• If you’re comfortable, introduce yourself with your pronouns.
  • Example: My name is Nadia and I use she/her pronouns.
• Don’t ask other people for their pronouns. They may not feel comfortable sharing.
• Don’t share pronouns only when you think the group includes a transgender person, as that person could feel called out. Sharing pronouns is a good practice all the time.
• Include pronouns in your Zoom name, email signature, and nametags.
  • Examples: Bobby Chao (she/her) or Bobby Chao – she/her

Gender-Neutral Language

Using gender-neutral language makes no assumptions and includes all people.

•  Use the singular “they” instead of “him or her.” “They” can be used to refer to an unspecified person, a person whose pronouns are unknown, or a person who uses they/them pronouns.
  • Example: Before a resident fills out their application, they should check their eligibility.
• Avoid common phrases that include gender, such as “ladies and gentlemen” or “you guys.”
• Do not assume a person’s gender or pronouns.
• Omit unnecessary references to gender. For example, is it important to your content that a doctor is a woman, or that a presenter is transgender? If not, remove the language. 

Transgender-Inclusive Language

Transgender-Inclusive Language Using a person’s correct name and pronouns is respectful.

• Always use a person’s correct name and pronouns. They are not optional or “preferred,” and their correct name and pronouns are to be used every time.
• Use “gender” instead of “gender identity.” Saying that someone “identifies as a man” or that their “gender identity is nonbinary” marks them as different and undermines their gender. Just say, “He is a man,” or “They are nonbinary.”
• Use “men” or “women” instead of “males” or “females.”

What should I do if I mess up?

What should I do if I mess up? If you make a mistake by using an incorrect name or pronouns, apologize and commit to doing better next time. Use the correct name or pronouns, and move on. Example scripts:

• “Thank you for the reminder. Angelina* is working on a solution.”
• “She will be- I’m sorry, he* will be attending the meeting.”
  • *By including the person’s name/pronouns, you correct your mistake, practice the correction, and help model the right language for others around you.

For further inclusion practices for facilitators, see [RESJI Best Practices for Inclusive Presentations] & APM 2-52 Gender-Inclusive Language Style Guide.