--- title: What Are Pronouns? A Practical Guide to Respectful Language description: Learn what pronouns are, why respectful pronoun use matters, common examples, and practical ways to create more inclusive everyday interactions. image: https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/An%20image%20of%20a%20diverse%20group%20of%20individuals%20within%20the%202SLGBTQI%2B%20community%20coming%20together%20to%20advocate%20for%20gender%20equality.jpeg --- [Skip to Content](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog/understanding-gender-pronouns-key-to-inclusive-identity#body) [![DAO logo](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/hs-fs/hubfs/2-1.png?width=50&height=50&name=2-1.png "DAO logo")](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/about-us?hsLang=en-ca) Toggle Menu - [Home](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/about-us) - [About](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/about-us) Toggle children for About - [Blog](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog) - [Contact us](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/en-ca/contact-us) - [Membership](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/en-ca/membership) - [Videos](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/about-us/videos) - [Programs](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/programs) Toggle children for Programs - [Pride Durham](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/pridedurham) - [Club 717](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/club717) Toggle children for Club 717 - [Advertising](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/advertising) - [Venue Rental](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/venue-rental) - [Peer-to-Peer (P2P)](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/breaking-the-binary) - [Pantry](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/programs/market) - [Education](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/education) Toggle children for Education - [Budgeting Basics](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/budgeting-basics) - Community Supports Toggle children for Community Supports - [Binders & Gaffs](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/programs/binder-gaffs-sign-up-sheet) - [Calming Kits](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/programs/calming-kits) - [Naloxone](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/programs/naloxone) - [Events](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/events) - Get Involved Toggle children for Get Involved - [Keep 717 Thriving](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/keep-thriving) - [Shop](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/store) - [Volunteer](https://www.vomevolunteer.com/organization-details/48c4382b-410e-433e-8cfd-ef28abed4bf3) - [Partners](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/partners) - [Donate](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/donate) Toggle children for Donate - [Benevity](https://causes.benevity.org/causes/124-756405874RR0001) - [Canada Helps](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/donate/canada-helps) - [Donate-A-Car](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/donate/donate-a-car) - [Kitchen Fundraiser](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/en-ca/kitchen-fundraiser) - [Securities](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/donate/securities) - [Contact](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/en-ca/contact-us) - Open Search Search Site Submit Search - [Get Support](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/supports) [Back to blog](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog) # What Are Pronouns? A Practical Guide to Respectful Language [Donations](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog/topic/donations?hsLang=en-ca) • 2 min read • Apr 15, 2024, 12:00:00 p.m. • Written by: Durham Alliance Outreach [mailto:?subject=What%20Are%20Pronouns%3F%20A%20Practical%20Guide%20to%20Respectful%20Language&body=https%3A%2F%2Fdurhamallianceoutreach.org%2Fdaoblog%2Funderstanding-gender-pronouns-key-to-inclusive-identity](mailto:?subject=What%20Are%20Pronouns%3F%20A%20Practical%20Guide%20to%20Respectful%20Language&body=https%3A%2F%2Fdurhamallianceoutreach.org%2Fdaoblog%2Funderstanding-gender-pronouns-key-to-inclusive-identity) Pronouns are words we use to refer to people without repeating their names. They are a normal part of everyday language and can also be an important part of how someone expresses and experiences their gender. ## What Are Pronouns? Common examples include **she/her**, **he/him**, and **they/them**. Some people use more than one set of pronouns, while others may use less common pronouns or prefer that people use their name instead. Pronouns do not always tell you everything about a person’s gender, and it is best not to guess based on appearance, voice, name, or clothing. ## Why Pronouns Matter Using the pronouns someone asks you to use is a simple way to show respect. It communicates that you are listening to how that person identifies and how they want to be addressed. For trans, non-binary, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse people, consistently being referred to correctly can contribute to a stronger sense of belonging and inclusion. ## Examples of Pronoun Sets - **She/her:** “She is joining us today. I saved a seat for her.” - **He/him:** “He is joining us today. I saved a seat for him.” - **They/them:** “They are joining us today. I saved a seat for them.” Other pronoun sets exist as well. If someone tells you the pronouns they use, the respectful approach is simply to use them. ## How Do You Know Someone’s Pronouns? You may learn them because a person shares them in conversation, includes them in an email signature or profile, wears a pronoun pin, or introduces themselves with them. If pronouns are relevant and you are unsure, you can respectfully ask rather than assume. You can also make introductions easier by sharing your own pronouns without requiring everyone else to do the same. ## Pronouns Are One Part of Inclusion Respectful pronoun use is important, but creating an inclusive environment involves more than language alone. Policies, accessibility, education, safer spaces, and how organizations respond to discrimination all matter too. ## Learn More With DAO Durham Alliance Outreach provides 2SLGBTQIA+ education and workshops for individuals, community groups, workplaces, and organizations. Explore [DAO education and workshops](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/education?hsLang=en-ca) or visit our [programs](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/programs?hsLang=en-ca) to learn more about our community work. *This article is part of DAO’s gender-equality education series, originally supported through community funding partnerships.* #### Support Our Mission! [Donate](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/donate?hsLang=en-ca) ![](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/hubfs/DAO%20Logo%20Icon%20-%20FOR%20WEB.png) ###### Durham Alliance Outreach About Durham Alliance Outreach Durham Alliance Outreach (DAO) is a dedicated community organization committed to addressing food insecurity and supporting the 2SLGBTQI+ community in the Durham Region. With a mission to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all, DAO operates a variety of programs and services that provide essential resources and foster community resilience. Through initiatives like DAO Pantry, we ensure that individuals and families facing food insecurity have access to nutritious food and necessary support. Our efforts are powered by a passionate team of volunteers and generous contributions from our community partners. DAO is proud to collaborate with various local organizations, including Youth Pride Durham, the Municipality of Clarington, and the Durham District School Board, to amplify our impact and reach. Our work extends beyond food distribution; we are actively involved in advocacy, education, and community-building efforts. Join us in our mission to make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, every contribution helps us build a stronger, more resilient community. Our Latest ##### Related Articles ![](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/hs-fs/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/An%20image%20of%20a%20diverse%20group%20of%20individuals%20within%20the%202SLGBTQI%2B%20community%20coming%20together%20to%20advocate%20for%20gender%20equality.jpeg?width=700&name=An%20image%20of%20a%20diverse%20group%20of%20individuals%20within%20the%202SLGBTQI%2B%20community%20coming%20together%20to%20advocate%20for%20gender%20equality.jpeg) Donations ### [Why Pronouns Matter—and What to Do When You Make a Mistake](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog/understanding-the-impact-of-gender-pronouns-in-the-2slgbtqi-community?hsLang=en-ca) ![](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/hs-fs/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/An%20image%20of%20a%20diverse%20group%20of%20individuals%20within%20the%202SLGBTQI%2B%20community%20coming%20together%20to%20advocate%20for%20gender%20equality.jpeg?width=700&name=An%20image%20of%20a%20diverse%20group%20of%20individuals%20within%20the%202SLGBTQI%2B%20community%20coming%20together%20to%20advocate%20for%20gender%20equality.jpeg) Donations ### [7 Practical Ways to Use Pronouns Inclusively Every Day](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog/incorporating-pronouns-a-guide-to-gender-equality-in-the-2slgbtqi-community?hsLang=en-ca) ![](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/hs-fs/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/An%20image%20of%20a%20diverse%20group%20of%20individuals%20within%20the%202SLGBTQI%2B%20community%20coming%20together%20to%20advocate%20for%20gender%20equality.jpeg?width=700&name=An%20image%20of%20a%20diverse%20group%20of%20individuals%20within%20the%202SLGBTQI%2B%20community%20coming%20together%20to%20advocate%20for%20gender%20equality.jpeg) Donations ### [Pronouns at Work: Practical Inclusive Practices for Organizations](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog/implementing-pronoun-practices-for-gender-equality-in-organizations?hsLang=en-ca) ##### Don't Miss Out On Another Thing Sign up and Join Our Newsletter Today [![](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/hs-fs/hubfs/2.png?width=2000&height=2000&name=2.png)](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org?hsLang=en-ca) - [About Us](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/about-us) - [Blog](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog) - [Contact Us](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/en-ca/contact-us) - [Donate](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/donate) - [Newsletter](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/newsletter) - [Privacy Policy](https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/en-ca/privicy-policy) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Durham Alliance Outreach", "url" : "https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog/author/durham-alliance-outreach" }, "dateModified" : "2026-09-02T04:34:16.960Z", "datePublished" : "2024-04-15T16:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "What Are Pronouns? A Practical Guide to Respectful Language", "image" : [ "https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/hubfs/AI-Generated%20Media/Images/An%20image%20of%20a%20diverse%20group%20of%20individuals%20within%20the%202SLGBTQI%2B%20community%20coming%20together%20to%20advocate%20for%20gender%20equality.jpeg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/daoblog/understanding-gender-pronouns-key-to-inclusive-identity", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://durhamallianceoutreach.org/hubfs/2.png" }, "name" : "Durham Alliance Outreach" } } ```