Spread the love!

There are many ways to be inclusive of everyone, regardless of their gender identity. Our language and the way we speak is often embedded with hidden gendered cues.

Once we start to notice them, we can move towards using language that’s inclusive for all. Here are 10 tips you can start using right away!

1. Share your pronouns

Introduce yourself with your pronouns (e.g., "Hi, I'm Alex, they/them") and add them to your email signature or university bio. Normalising the use of pronouns takes the pressure off trans and non-binary people.

2. Use inclusive language

Shift away from binary greetings like "ladies and gentlemen". Try using more general, inclusive terms such as "everyone".

3. Never assume

Don't guess someone's pronouns based on their appearance, voice or clothing. Always wait for them to share or ask them.

4. Correct mistakes gracefully

If you use the wrong pronoun, apologise, correct yourself and move on. You don't need to make a scene about it.

5. Update your terminology

Use relationship-neutral names when speaking about significant others or family (e.g., "partner" instead of "boyfriend/girlfriend", "sibling" instead of "brother/sister")

6. Respect chosen names

Always use the name a person asks you to use, regardless of what might be on their ID. Using an old name (or deadnaming) can be harmful to the individual.

7. Support inclusive facilities

Familiarise yourself with campus maps and advocate for accessible, gender-neutral toilets, and point them out to students, staff members or visitors who may be looking for them around the university.

8. Educate yourself

Take the initiative to read LGBTQ+ resources rather than relying on non-binary students to explain basic concepts to you. Look into guides like The Trevor Project Ally Guide for deep dives on terminology.

9. Respect confidentiality

Never share someone's gender identity or trans history with others unless you have explicit permission to do so.

10. Speak up

Speak up when you hear someone use the wrong pronouns and challenge enbyphobic/transphobic comments/behaviours - even if it's 'just a joke'.

Allyship continues all year round, not just in Pride Month. Continue to research LGBTQ+ history and speak up for equality! 🏳️‍⚧️