Pronouns are used when referring to another person.
For example:
They/Them:
"B plays bike polo. They have been playing for one year."
Using a person's pronouns correctly shows that you respect them and want to create an inclusive environment.
Assuming someone's pronouns based off of the way they look sends the message that they have to look a certain way to be respected. So, it's best to just ask! Asking can feel awkward in the middle of a conversation or if you've known the person for a while. Some ways to ask
1. intros
"Hi, my name is B. I use they/them pronouns. Stating your pronouns during intro's is a great way to disrupt the norm and privilege of assumption. It also signals safety and invites the other person to share.
Someones name and pronouns may have changed since you last saw them.
"Hey RuPaul, can you remind me what your pronouns are?"
she/her:
She has a sick bike frame she made herself.
they/them
They painted their bike frame themselves.
he/him
He picked the prizes himself.
use my name:
RuPaul is a great goalie. Nothing gets by RuPaul.
ze/hir:
Ze trued hir wheels hirself.
1. Correct yourself, don't get too hung up!
"He played in Tropiclassicsorry, they played in Tropiclassic last year."
2. If someone corrects you, thank them, correct yourself and keep in movin'.
you:
"she has the enforcer."
them:
"he uses he/him pronouns. He just got that frame!"
you:
"Oh yeah, thank you! Do you know what size he got?"
Easy peasy squeezey lemon. This shifts the attention towards growth and doesn't put responsibility on the person who corrected you to forgive an apology.
@CRAFTORDIY.ART: "how to support" zine
@themollycameron: ridegroup.org LGBTQ Sports Podcast: The TransSporter Room ep:152 pronouns.org
