Trans and Nonbinary Inclusive Language in the Workplace

In the expert session led by Levi Hord, participants engage in an interactive Q&A using the Mentimeter app. Concerns arise about enforcing politically correct language and asking for pronouns. Levi responds by emphasizing the importance of considering the impact on others, rather than seeing it as merely a political issue. They clarify that asking for pronouns is about public identification, not outing someone, and advises being mindful of relational dynamics when discussing gender identity. Levi also addresses questions about misgendering and navigating gendered languages, offering practical solutions like normalizing the practice of asking for pronouns and adopting more inclusive language. The session wraps up with an invitation for participants to provide feedback through a survey on the Mentimeter app.
 

• Understanding Gender Identity and Expression: Recognizing that biological sex, gender identity, gender expression, and gender perception are distinct concepts is essential for fostering inclusive workplaces. 
• Practicing Inclusive Language: Utilizing gender-neutral language and respecting individuals' preferred pronouns create a welcoming and affirming workplace culture. 
• Navigating Challenges in Implementation: Being aware of the unique challenges faced when using inclusive language, such as language limitations and societal norms, enables continuous improvement towards an inclusive environment.

In this expert session led by Levi Hord, the importance of using inclusive and gender-affirming language in the workplace is emphasized. Levi begins by discussing the concepts of biological sex, gender identity, gender expression, and gender perception.

 

They highlight that biological sex refers to physical and genetic characteristics (male or female), while gender identity is a person's internal sense of themselves as male, female, non-binary, or another gender. Gender expression is how one presents their gender externally through behaviors, clothing, body characteristics, voice, and more, while gender perception is how others perceive and categorize someone based on their appearance and presentation.

 

Levi then delves into the significance of using inclusive language in the workplace, specifically focusing on adding pronouns to email signatures as a way to normalize this practice. They argue that creating a workplace culture where people feel comfortable sharing their pronouns is crucial for inclusion and reducing turnover rates. Levi provides strategies such as using gender-neutral language, checking forms and procedures for gendered language, writing inclusive job postings, and introducing oneself with pronouns to make the environment more welcoming and respectful for all individuals.

 

The speaker debunks two myths around inclusive language: that it is a recent fad and only benefits a small number of people. They share that singular "they" has been used in English for hundreds of years, and conversations around gender-neutral language have been ongoing for centuries. The feminist language movement of the 1970s serves as an example, where cisgender women noticed implicit sexism in their workplaces and began advocating for gender-inclusive language to benefit everyone.

 

Levi encourages being curious and learning from mistakes in order to improve and shift habits towards creating a more inclusive environment. They emphasize that language is dynamic and ever-changing, evolving with culture and social context. 

 

The expert session emphasizes the benefits of implementing gender-inclusive practices in the workplace, including increased productivity, employee engagement, and attracting diverse talent. It also addresses challenges faced when navigating gender-neutral language in languages that are heavily gendered and provides resources, such as Mx.com and Minus18.org, for practicing inclusive and affirming language. 

No other sessions available at this moment.