A Guide to not Misgendering Trans People

What is Misgendering?
Referring to someone (especially a trans person) using pronouns, descriptors, titles, or other gendered terms that do not match that person's gender identity.

How Does Being Misgendered Effect a Trans Person?
Misgendering is a type of micro-aggression that can negatively impact someone's mental  health and sense of safety. Repeatedly misgendering a trans person communicates the message that you do not care about or respect their identity.

How to Avoid Misgendering Someone:
If you're uncertain what pronouns someone uses, you can ask them in a private conversation. You can also introduce yourself with your own pronouns! Once you know someone's pronouns, practice using them! Practice talking about that person using the correct pronouns when you're not around them, so you're less likely to make mistakes when talking to them.

What to do When you Misgender Someone:
Mistakes happen, and adjusting to using new language can be difficult, so what should you do if you accidentally misgender someone?

Step 1: Acknowledge the Mistake. When you make a mistake, don't ignore it or hope no one noticed. Acknowledge that you slipped up.
Step 2: Correct Yourself. It's best to correct yourself as soon as you realize the error. You don't need to make a big deal of the correction. Just say a quick sorry, fix the error, and move on with the conversation. (example: saying "sorry I meant...").
Step 3: Commit to Doing Better. Do your best not to misgender the person again during this conversation and all future conversations. Remember, trans people don't just want to hear you saying you'll try. We want to see you trying.

Correcting Other People When They Misgender a Trans Person:
If you hear or see someone misgendering a trans person you can correct them by saying "that person uses [blank] pronouns" as well as using the correct language when you talk about the person. HOWEVER, you should only correct someone if you know the person you are advocating for is okay with you doing so. You don't want to out them or jeopardize their safety.

Sources: McMaster Student Union Women and Gender Equity Network's Trans Literacy Campaign, Awaken, and The Cider Squad.

Designed by Ari Trueswell