Pronouns Matter

International Pronouns Day

Pronouns are used in every day speech and writing to take the place of people's names. We frequently use them without thinking about it. Often, when speaking of someone in the third person, these pronouns have a gender implied. These associations are not always accurate or helpful.

Mistaking or assuming peoples' pronouns without asking first, mistakes their gender and sends a harmful message. Using someone's correct gender pronouns is one of the most basic ways to show your respect for their identity. Join the LGBT Resource Center as we aim to advance the knowledge of using everyone's correct gender pronouns and strive for a more inclusive environment at UCSF.

What are Pronouns?

Pronouns are words that refer to either the people talking (like you or I) or someone or something that is being talked about (like she, they, and this). Gender pronouns (like he or them) specifically refer to people that you are talking about.

Using Gender Pronouns

People may choose to use a variety of pronouns. Below is a list of some commonly used pronouns and how they are used:

This is not an exhaustive list. It is good practice to ask which pronouns a person uses.

Why is it important for UCSF faculty, staff, and students to respect gender pronouns?

• The University of California's nondiscrimination policy includes protections for sex and gender identities. A key element of creating a safe space for people of all sexes and gender identities is the respectful use of gender pronouns.
• The UCSF PRIDE values set a clear direction for all members of the UCSF community to appreciate and celebrate differences in others, creating an environment of equity and inclusion with opportunities for everyone to reach their potential.
• Asking UCSF community members what their gender pronouns are and consistently using them correctly is one of the most basic ways to show your respect for their gender identity. This can determine within the first few minutes if they will feel respected at UCSF or not.
• Discussing and correctly using gender pronouns sets a tone of allyship. It can truly make all of the difference, especially for new community members that may feel particularly vulnerable in a new environment.
• You can't always know what someone's gender pronoun is by looking at them. When someone is referred to with the wrong pronoun, it can make them feel disrespected, invalidated, dismissed, alienated, or hurt.
• Many people may be learning about gender pronouns for the first time, so this will be a learning opportunity for the UCSF community. You will be setting an example for your colleagues.

How can I be inclusive in using and respecting gender pronouns?

Incorporate gender pronouns in everyday use, with these strategies:

• Edit your email signature to include your pronouns
• Verbal introductions and check-ins are great opportunities to solicit gender pronouns. As names and pronouns can change over time, it is preferable to regularly incorporate these questions into meetings and introductions. Asking about a person's pronouns may initially feel awkward or uncomfortable, but it is preferable to making hurtful assumptions and using the wrong pronoun. Here are some ways you can do this:
  • "What pronouns do you use?"
  • "How would you like me to refer to you?"
  • "How would you like to be addressed?"
  • "Can you remind me which pronouns you like for yourself?"
  • "My name is Joshua and my pronouns are he, him, and his. What about you?"
• Wear your pronouns sticker on your UCSF ID badge.
• Update your pronouns on the UCSF directory.

12 Actions to be Inclusive in Using and Respecting Pronouns
(Click to download a copy.)

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