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 or visit our programs to learn more about our community work.
This article is part of DAO’s gender-equality education series, originally supported through community funding partnerships.
