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Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences

CFAES

The Language of Inclusion: Pronouns and Other Gendered Words

Pronouns are tools for effective and efficient communication, and their intentional or unintentional misuse can cause confusion and harm. Using gender-affirming pronouns and avoiding unnecessary use of other gendered words is essential to creating spaces that are safe, inviting, and inclusive of people of all genders. This 90-minute workshop will address why pronouns matter, the history of singular they/them, neo-pronouns such as ze/zir, alternatives to other gendered language (e.g., sir, ma’am), and ways allies can use language to advocate for and support transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. An optional debrief/follow up session will be offered on 3/24, 9:30-10:30am - link will be provided during workshop