Inclusive language does not need to be complicated. A few everyday habits can make it easier for people to share how they want to be addressed without singling anyone out.
You can include your pronouns when introducing yourself: “Hi, I’m Alex, and I use they/them pronouns.”
Sharing your own pronouns can signal that you understand pronouns should not always be assumed. It can be helpful in meetings, workshops, community groups, classrooms, and other spaces where people are introducing themselves.
At the same time, avoid making pronoun sharing mandatory. Some people may not be comfortable disclosing their pronouns in a particular setting.
When appropriate, people can voluntarily include pronouns in places such as:
When people of many identities participate—not only trans and non-binary people—it can help make the practice feel less like someone is being singled out.
A person’s appearance, clothing, name, or voice does not reliably tell you which pronouns they use.
When you do not know, use the person’s name where practical, use neutral language when appropriate, or respectfully ask if knowing their pronouns is relevant to the interaction.
A straightforward question such as “What pronouns do you use?” is often enough.
Context matters. Avoid putting someone on the spot in front of a group when you could ask privately, and remember that a person may not want to share.
If you are having difficulty adjusting to someone’s pronouns, practice privately rather than making that person responsible for teaching or repeatedly correcting you.
Try a few simple sentences using the person’s name and pronouns until the wording becomes familiar.
If you make a mistake, correct it and continue. A short correction usually keeps the focus where it belongs rather than turning the moment into a lengthy apology.
Inclusive language also means thinking about terms such as “ladies and gentlemen,” gendered job titles, assumptions about partners or families, and forms that unnecessarily limit gender options.
Small language changes can help create spaces where more people feel included.
Read What Are Pronouns? and Why Pronouns Matter for more background.
For deeper learning, explore DAO’s 2SLGBTQIA+ education and workshops.
This article is part of DAO’s gender-equality education series, originally supported through community funding partnerships.