Celebrating International Pronouns Day: A Step Towards Radical Inclusion
Every year, on the third Wednesday of October, the world comes together to celebrate International Pronouns Day. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of respecting and sharing personal pronouns, a small but powerful step in creating inclusive environments for everyone—especially for those in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
At Rainbow Connections, because we are committed to fostering a sense of belonging, radical acceptance, and inclusion for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, we deeply understand the significance of affirming someone’s identity, and pronouns are an essential part of that affirmation. They are more than just words; they are a reflection of who we are, and when used correctly, they help foster a sense of belonging and respect.
Why Pronouns Matter
For many cisgender individuals, pronouns may not feel like a big deal. You might rarely think about them—perhaps only when filling out forms or introducing yourself. However, for trans, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals, having their pronouns respected can make a world of difference. Being misgendered can cause discomfort, stress, and a sense of invisibility. By using the correct pronouns, you’re acknowledging a person’s identity and showing that you see and respect them for who they truly are.
The beauty of pronouns is in their simplicity. Whether someone uses she/her, he/him, they/them, or a different set of pronouns entirely, taking the time to ask and use them correctly is a small act with a big impact.
How We Can All Do Better
So, how can we contribute to making our spaces more inclusive? It starts with each of us making a conscious effort. Here are a few ways you can start honouring pronouns today—and every day:
Ask First, Don’t Assume – When meeting someone new, it’s good practice to ask what pronouns they use. A simple “Hi, my name is [your name], and I use [your pronouns]. What pronouns do you use?” can go a long way in setting a tone of respect.
Normalize Sharing Pronouns – Whether in email signatures, social media profiles, or introductions during meetings, normalizing pronoun sharing helps break down the assumption that pronouns are something only trans and nonbinary people need to think about.
Respect the Journey – Sometimes, people’s pronouns change as they explore and affirm their identities. It’s important to stay open and respectful of those changes, acknowledging that identity is deeply personal and often evolving.
Practice Makes Perfect – If you’re not used to using certain pronouns, it might take some time to adjust. That’s okay! Practice in conversations or write down notes to remind yourself. If you make a mistake, correct it, apologize briefly, and move forward.
Check out Egales Pronoun Usage Guide – https://egale.ca/awareness/pronoun-usage-guide/
Pronouns in Action: Building Inclusive Communities
International Pronouns Day is not just about awareness; it’s about action. By learning and practicing respectful language, we are taking active steps toward dismantling the harmful norms that exclude gender-diverse individuals from full participation in society. Each time you respect someone’s pronouns, you are participating in an act of radical acceptance—one of the core values we champion at Rainbow Connections.
As we celebrate International Pronouns Day, let’s remember that every day is an opportunity to deepen our understanding and practice of inclusivity. By honouring pronouns, we help create a world where everyone can be their authentic selves.
Together, let’s keep spreading acceptance, one pronoun at a time.
#PronounsDay
