LGBTIQ+ Inclusive Language & Pronouns | Equity Diversity & Inclusion

UNSW uses the acronym LGBTIQ+ as the inclusive umbrella that recognises the most common categories within gender, sex and sexuality diverse populations: lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer-identifying people, with the '+' being an inclusive and intentional way of representing all identities and experiences that are not represented by the letters. We acknowledge there are many other variations of this acronym, which carry many problems and reason for debate – and, no doubt, it's likely there will be new variations in the years to come. We realise that our choice may not reflect the preferred identification of all individuals and will continue to discuss with the LGBTIQ+ community which initialism conveys the greatest sense of belonging for everyone.

We understand that language matters and using appropriate terminology in all forms of communication allows people to feel included.

Inclusive Language & Pronouns Guides

Diversity Council Australia's Words at Work.
ACON's Language Guide for Trans and Gender Diverse Inclusion for details on how to use inclusive and non-offensive language.
ACON’s Pronouns 101
TransHub on Pronouns - Different Types and How to Use Them
Wear It Purple's Guide to Misgendering & Pronouns.

Pronouns at UNSW

Pronouns are used to refer to people when we are not using their name. Using the correct pronoun shows respect. In the English language, pronouns often indicate gender. For many trans and gender diverse people, using the correct pronouns is an important and validating part of their gender affirmation. Some trans and gender diverse people may use gender-neutral pronouns, rather than binary male-female pronouns.

This video guide to pronouns from Minus18, an Australian NGO championing LGBTIQ+ youth, explains the importance of pronouns.

UNSW encourages staff and students to include their pronouns in their email signatures.

Example Email Signature:

Name (she/her)
Title

Division of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Lower Ground, Chancellery
UNSW Sydney
NSW 2052 AUSTRALIA
E: name@unsw.edu.au W: www.unsw.edu.au

Tips on using names and pronouns

1. Role model the use of pronouns next to your name.

Irrespective of whether there are trans of gender diverse people present, display your name and pronouns. For example:

On your desk plaque
On the corner of a whiteboard when presenting
In your email signature
On Zoom and Teams and other digital platforms.

2. Appropriately and respectfully ask for pronouns.

The easiest way to ask someone about their pronouns is to share your own. By opening the conversation with your pronouns, you are normalising the act of sharing of pronouns in public spaces and interactions.

Example: "Hello, my name is Charlie and I go by 'she, her, hers' pronouns. What pronouns do you use?" OR "How would you like me to refer to you?"

3. Be careful not to 'OUT' trans and gender diverse staff or students.

If a staff member or student shares their gender identity with you, do not share it with others unless you have their expressed permission.

4. Own your mistakes.

Acknowledge when you have made a mistake about someone's pronouns and correct yourself.

Unlearning gender socialisation takes time, and you are bound to make mistakes. Model the behaviour you expect.

Example: "Oh, she's a great friend. I'm sorry, I meant they are a great friend. They always send me funny videos to cheer me up."

5. Call out misgendering.

Honouring staff and student names and pronouns includes making sure that other people also use the correct names and pronouns. If someone else misgenders and staff member or student, politely provide a correction whether the person is present or not.

Example: Someone says, "Oh, she's a great friend." Your response can be, "You're right, they are a great friend. Also, just so you know, Sam uses 'they/them/theirs' pronouns."