By Laetitia Satam, General Member
Happy International Pronouns Day! International Pronouns Day is celebrated on the third Wednesday of October each year and has been an official day since 2018. It is a day to remind people that using your preferred pronouns is one of the simplest forms of respect. International Pronoun Day is not merely a symbolic gesture but a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone.
You may have noticed that more spaces are transitioning towards asking for pronouns and ensuring that they are respected. From name tags to your Zoom name, pronouns are essential to identity. And I know some people think, “Well, I think it is obvious what pronouns I use,” but that line of thinking is not progressive. Pronouns are a fundamental aspect of language and communication. Most of us are familiar with the commonly used pronouns, such as "he," "she," and "they." However, it is essential to recognize that not everyone identifies with these binary gender categories. To break gender stereotypes, we have to break the notion that there is no way to assume someone's pronouns, even if you think you present as a gender-conforming cisgender person. When everyone in a space shares their pronouns (if they are comfortable doing so - some people may be figuring out which pronouns align with their identity), it fosters an inclusive environment for everybody. Imagine being the only person in the room with your pronouns on a name tag; you might feel a little out of place.
One of the primary goals of International Pronoun Day is to promote gender inclusivity. Traditionally, many societies have operated under a binary understanding of gender, where individuals are categorized as either male or female. This binary perspective has excluded and marginalized those whose gender identity does not conform to these norms. By recognizing and respecting a person's pronouns, we affirm their gender identity, whether non-binary, genderqueer, transgender or any other identity. This simple act of respect goes a long way in creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. It sends a powerful message that individuals should not be confined to rigid gender expectations but should be free to express themselves authentically.
International Pronoun Day also plays a crucial role in reducing discrimination and stigma against transgender and non-binary individuals. Many people within these communities face discrimination, harassment, and violence simply because their gender identity does not align with societal expectations. By recognizing and respecting their pronouns, we take a significant step towards dismantling these harmful prejudices. Recent news articles have been reporting that while hate crimes are decreasing, there has been an increase in transphobic hate crimes, making this year’s International Pronoun Day especially important.
International Pronoun Day reminds us of the significance of gender inclusivity and the importance of respecting individuals' pronouns. It is a day dedicated to fostering understanding, reducing discrimination, and creating a more inclusive world. By embracing this observance, we build a society where everyone can express their gender identity authentically and without fear, ultimately promoting a more equitable and compassionate world for future generations.
If you want more resources about International Pronoun Day, check out the websites below!
https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/maple-leaf/defence/2021/10/internationa l-pronouns-day-using-inclusive-language.html
https://pronouns.org/day
https://www.sace.ca/pronouns-day/