"Gender-neutral language or gender-inclusive language is language that avoids reference towards a particular sex or gender."
This type of communication seeks to avoid gender identification altogether, using gender-neutral language or pronouns such as “they” or “them” rather than “he” or “she”. It aims to highlight the individual’s abilities rather than their gender.
Gender identity: The personal sense of one’s own gender, which may be male, female, or neither, and can differ from the gender assigned at birth.
Gender expression: The way in which one presents themselves to the world, including clothing, hairstyles, mannerisms, and language.
Pronoun usage: The use of gender-neutral pronouns like they/them or ze/hir instead of he/him or she/her to respect and acknowledge individual gender identities.
Sexism: Attitudes or behaviors that discriminate against individuals based on their sex or gender, often rooted in stereotypical beliefs about gender roles and abilities.
Gender stereotypes: The cultural assumptions about what it means to be “masculine” or “feminine” that can limit individuals and perpetuate discrimination and prejudice.
Intersectionality: The recognition of the ways in which different social identities and experiences, such as race, class, and sexuality, intersect and impact an individual’s experiences of gender.
Micro-aggressions: Subtle or unintentional acts of discrimination or prejudice that can impact individuals on a daily basis, such as assumptions or comments about one’s gender identity or expression.
Inclusive language: The use of language that does not perpetuate or reinforce gender stereotypes and acknowledges the diversity of gender identities and experiences.
Cultural norms and expectations: The social and cultural expectations about gender roles and behaviors that can vary widely across different communities and contexts.
Socialization: The ways in which individuals are taught and conditioned to understand and perform their gender roles, often through childhood experiences and media exposure.
Use of Gender-neutral Pronouns: Avoid using gender-specific pronouns such as he, she, him or her, instead use gender-neutral pronouns like they/them, ze/hir, or xe/xem.
Gender-Inclusive Language: Use inclusive language that considers gender identities beyond traditional binary notions.
Gender-Neutral Terms: Avoid using terms that are gender-specific like “males” or “females,” and use gender-inclusive terms like “people” or “humans” instead.
Non-sexist Writing: Use gender-neutral words and avoid sexist language like “manpower” or ”mankind”.
Gender-Neutral Greetings: Choose greetings like “Hola” or “Hello” instead of gender-specific names like “sir” or “madam”.
Gender-Neutral Job Titles: Use job titles that aren’t gender-specific such as “police officer” instead of “policeman.”.
Inclusive Pronouns and Salutations: Instead of “ladies and gentlemen,” use phrases like “distinguished guests,” or “everyone.”.
Gender-Neutral Clothing: Encourage individuals to wear clothing that makes them comfortable rather than gender-specific attire.
Avoid Stereotyping: Avoid using non-gender-neutral wording such as assuming women are emotional while men are not.
"This includes use of nouns that are not gender-specific to refer to roles or professions."
"For example, the words policeman and stewardess are gender-specific job titles; the corresponding gender-neutral terms are police officer and flight attendant."
"Other gender-specific terms, such as actor and actress, may be replaced by the originally male term; for example, actor used regardless of gender."
"Some terms, such as chairman, that contain the component -man but have traditionally been used to refer to persons regardless of sex are now seen by some as gender-specific."
"An example of forming phrases in a coequal manner would be using husband and wife instead of man and wife."
"Examples of discontinuing the collective use of terms in English when referring to those with unknown or indeterminate gender as singular they."
"Using humans, people, or humankind, instead of man or mankind."
"There is increasing recognition of the importance of gender-neutral language in promoting inclusivity and avoiding gender biases."
"Using gender-neutral language helps to promote equality by not excluding or marginalizing individuals based on their gender."
"Using gender-neutral terms for job titles ensures that opportunities are not restricted based on gender, and encourages individuals of all genders to pursue any role or profession."
"Gender-neutral language challenges traditional gender roles by breaking the association of certain roles or professions with a specific gender, allowing for more diverse and inclusive interpretations."
"Switching to gender-neutral language contributes to a more inclusive society by acknowledging and respecting the diversity of gender identities and reducing potential discrimination based on gender."
"Other languages may also have gender-specific terms, such as the Spanish words el doctor (male doctor) and la doctora (female doctor), which can be addressed through the use of gender-neutral terms like doctor(a)."
"Some individuals may find it challenging to adjust to gender-neutral language if they are accustomed to the traditional gender-specific terms. Additionally, there may be criticism or resistance from those who do not perceive the need for gender-inclusive language."
"Gender-neutral language allows for more accurate communication by avoiding assumptions about an individual's gender based on their job title or other linguistic cues."
"Yes, the use of gender-neutral language can benefit non-binary or gender non-conforming individuals by providing a more inclusive and welcoming environment that recognizes their identity."
"Social movements advocating for gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights have influenced the adoption of gender-neutral language as a way to challenge and dismantle gender norms and biases."
"Using gender-neutral language can help address unconscious bias by removing gender-related assumptions or expectations in communication, allowing for fair and unbiased interactions."
"One can actively incorporate gender-neutral language by becoming aware of and replacing gender-specific terms with gender-neutral alternatives, and by encouraging others to do the same."