1 of 6

Gender-Inclusive Language

5 Minute Training Topic k

​

Image from, https://www.personneltoday.com/hr/gender-identity-pronouns/

2 of 6

Why is Gender-Inclusive Language Important?

  • Using gendered language can make people feel excluded, unwanted, or even unsafe
  • Would prevent people from assuming others’ pronouns and gender identities.

​

​

​

Why else is gender-inclusive language important?

​

3 of 6

How Can We Use Gender-Inclusive Language?

We won’t fix discrimination overnight with a few word changes, but it is important to make people feel wanted and welcome.

  • Start by being more conscious of word choice and how words might affect other people, specifically non-cisgender people
  • One big change is using “they” instead of gendered pronouns when talking about someone who has not shared their pronouns with you

​

What other changes can you think of?

4 of 6

Examples of Gendered Language and How to Make It Gender Inclusive

What are other examples?

  • Ladies and gentlemen folks, esteemed guests, everyone

​

​

  • Policemen, firemen, etc police officers, fire fighters, etc

​

  • Husband/wife, boyfriend/girlfriend spouse, partner, significant other

5 of 6

Adjusting to Gender Neutral Language

  • It can take time for some people to adjust to new pronouns.
  • If you make an “error,” apologize and keep trying to do better.
  • Even if you mess up, knowing you care and are addressing them the way they want to be can mean a lot.
  • If you’re struggling to use someone’s pronouns or the generic “they,” try using the person’s name more!

6 of 6

Please contact the Social Justice Hub if you have any questions, comments, concerns or would like any more resources!

​

​

​

​

1308 Dayton St.

Union South (2nd floor)

go.wisc.edu/SocialJusticeHub

​