Pronouns at BCIT
Respecting and using the correct pronouns is essential for creating an inclusive environment where all members of the BCIT community feel seen and respected for who they are.
This is not only demonstrated in words alone, it’s about affirming someone’s identity and acknowledging their experiences. Misgendering (when addressing someone with the wrong pronoun) can cause invalidation, alienation, and even mental health challenges. By being mindful of using pronouns and taking the time to both learn and use them correctly, we can mitigate negative impact and reduce mental health issues to contribute to a more supportive, welcoming space for everyone.
At BCIT, education and awareness play crucial roles in promoting understanding and acceptance of diverse gender identities.
Understanding pronouns
Note that some folx may not be comfortable sharing their pronouns; however, sharing your pronouns can help create that space of trust and understanding.
Asking for pronouns
It’s respectful to ask, “What pronouns do you use?” This simple question can make a significant difference in fostering inclusivity.
Using multiple pronouns
Some people might use more than one set of pronouns. Respecting this choice is crucial for their identity affirmation.
Changing pronouns
As people explore and understand their gender identity, their pronouns might change. It’s important to stay respectful and adaptable to these changes.
Respecting pronouns
Together, we can make BCIT a community where everyone feels respected and valued. Let’s embrace each other’s identities through the thoughtful use of pronouns, creating an inclusive environment for all.
Responding to mistakes
If you mistakenly use the wrong pronoun, apologize, correct yourself, and move on. It’s an important part of the learning process.
Adapting to diverse pronoun preferences
It’s also important to recognize that some people may choose different pronouns for different settings due to their comfort level, personal safety, or intersectional identity.
Addressing incorrect pronoun use
If you hear someone using incorrect pronouns for someone else, first check in with the affected person about how they would like you to respond or support them, and then gently correct them when appropriate to do so. This helps educate others, while at the same time, demonstrates solidarity.
Familiarizing with common pronouns
Practice using pronouns you’re less familiar with. This will increase your comfort level and prepare you to interact respectfully with everyone. Some people may prefer you use their name instead of a pronoun. It’s always important to respect their choice.
| Pronoun Set | Subject | Object | Possessive Adjective | Possessive Pronoun | Reflexive |
| He/Him | He | Him | His | His | Himself |
| She/Her | She | Her | Her | Hers | Herself |
| They/Them | They | Them | Their | Theirs | Themselves |
| Ze/Hir | Ze | Hir | Hir | Hirs | Hirself |
| Ze/Zir | Ze | Zir | Zir | Zirs | Zirself |
| Xe/Xem | Xe | Xem | Xyr | Xyrs | Xemself |
| E/Ey/Em | E/Ey | Em | Eir | Eirs | Emself |
| Per/Pers | Per | Per | Per | Pers | Perself |
| (f)ae/(f)aer | (f)ae | (f)aer | (f)aer | (f)aers | (f)aerself |
| ve/ver | Ve | Ver | Vis | Vis | Verself |
| It/Its | It | It | Its | Its | Itself |
| Sie/Hir | Sie | Sie | Hir | Hirs | Hirself |
| Tey/Tem | Tey | Ter | Tem | Ters | Terself |