GRAPHIC: A graphic image of the female gender symbol of the left and the male gender symbol on the right. The symbols are a gradient of pink, purple then blue which symbolizes the fluidity of the binary spectrum. The text that is overlaid on those symbols are the words 'Gendered Language' in white. The text and symbols are on a black background. Graphic by The Signal reporter Amanda Weidle. — The gender symbols are a gradient of pink, purple then blue which symbolizes the fluidity of the binary spectrum. Graphic by The Signal reporter Amanda Weidle.

INFOGRAPHIC: Neutral alternatives for gendered language

By Amanda Weidle On Aug 4, 2020 3,423 0

Gendered language consists of words that indicate a bias toward a sex or gender such as policeman or waitress. Some individuals identify with or use a specific pronoun such as he/him or she/her based on their gender identity. Some, like non-binary individuals, may use the neutral pronouns they/them. However, many common words, job titles and greetings have long been tied to the gender binary.

Only using words and phrases which reinforce the gender binary can exclude non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals. Adjusting the common verbiage will create a more inclusive and unassuming environment.

INFOGRAPHIC: Infographic with a graphic image of the female gender symbol of the left and the male gender symbol on the right. The symbols are a gradient of pink, purple then blue which symbolizes the fluidity of the binary spectrum. The text that is overlaid on those symbols are the words 'Gendered Language' in white. The text and symbols are on a black background. There is a section that explains what gendered language is and why it is important. It contains a list of gendered terms and gender neutral terms for those who do not identify within the gender binary. There is a blue rectangle containing gendered nouns and neutral nouns. A purple rectangle containing gendered job titles and neutral job titles. Finally, a pink rectangle gendered greetings and neutral greetings. Infographic by The Signal reporter Amanda Weidle. — Infographic on gender neutral terminology for gendered words and phrases. Infographic by The Signal reporter Amanda Weidle.