LIFE

If you've been scrolling through social media lately, you've probably noticed that everyone seems to be sharing their pronouns. If you're wondering why people do it and if you should do the same, you've come to the right place! Here's why (and how) Y-O-U should share your pronouns, too.

What are pronouns?

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by ♡safe space♡ (@safehaven.activists)

We *all* have them and use them! Pronouns are simply the words we use in place of nouns to describe ourselves or others. Examples are "she," "he" and "they." Some people's pronouns stay the same throughout time, but some people's pronoun preferences change as they grow up—and that's completely normal! As we get older, we start to learn more about ourselves and our gender identities.

It's important not to assume anyone's pronouns or gender based on appearance. Sometimes, people may prefer to be referred to with "they/them" pronouns if they don't identify as just a girl or a boy, and for members of the transgender community, some people's pronouns change as they transition. If someone tells you they'd like to use different pronouns, the most important thing you can do as an ally is to respect this and try your best to use the right ones.

Ofc, we all slip up now and then, so if you do, it's OK (you're only human!). A quick apology and continuing on with the convo is the way to go.

Why share them?

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by LGBT (@lgbt)

Sharing your pronouns is an awesome way to show your allyship to the LGBTQIA+ community. Sharing your pronouns can also make other people feel more comfortable sharing their own! It's a great way to show someone that you want to make them feel welcome. 

How to share them 

@lgbt

Thanks to Instagram, it's now easier than ever to share your pronouns! Simply go to your profile settings on your Instagram account, and you'll see an option to add your pronouns to your profile. Doing this will show everyone that your accoutn is a safe space, and it shows that you'll respect other people's pronouns, too. Ever not quite sure what someone's pronouns are before talking to or about them? Don't be afraid to respectfully ask! Simply saying something along the lines of, "By the way, I was wondering what your pronouns are? Mine are she/her," will be sure to make them feel respected and accepted for who they are.

For more LGBTQIA+ content, check out these related posts: 
🌈 4 LGBTQIA+ short films you should check out 
🌈 You *need* to add these LGBTQ+ artists to your playlist ASAP
🌈 How to be a good ally to the LGBTQ+ community 

Any other pronoun Q's? Let us know on Twitter @girlslifemag!

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Slider and top image: @checkthementality

by Eva Mandelbaum | 1/28/2022