![]() Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's technical assistance publication Protections Against Employment Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity considers the use of pronouns or names that are inconsistent with an individual’s gender identity as unlawful harassment. Supreme Court ruled that Title VII’s prohibition against sex discrimination includes discrimination based on an employee’s gender identity or sexual orientation. The Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 expressly prohibits workplace discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. Intentional refusal to use someone’s correct pronouns is equivalent to harassment and a violation of one’s civil rights. Being misgendered (i.e., being referred to with incorrect pronouns) can be an extremely hurtful and invalidating experience. Using a person’s correct pronouns provides gender affirmation, signals mutual respect, and creates a more welcoming and tolerant environment. In some cases, these individuals may use gender-neutral or gender-inclusive pronouns, such as “they,” “them,” and many others (see below for additional examples). This is especially true for those whose gender identity does not align with their sex assigned at birth (e.g., transgender individuals) or whose gender identity or expression does not fall within binary constructs of gender (e.g., genderqueer or gender nonbinary individuals). Pronouns are important not only because they are used for everyday communication, but also because they are used to convey and affirm gender identity, especially for SGM communities. Gender pronouns are a way for individuals to identify themselves outside of using their names. Please click here for a pdf version of this resource. The overarching goal of this resource is to help facilitate inclusive, affirming, and welcoming workplace environments for all SGMs. ![]() This webpage provides an overview of gender pronouns, legal rights protecting sexual and gender minority (SGM) employees, guidance on the appropriate use of pronouns within the workplace, and other useful information. Gender Pronouns & Their Use in Workplace Communications
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