In concert with CU Anschutz's strategic goal of investing in our people and supporting an inclusive work environment, the Office of Information Technology is pleased to announce the release of the new Zoom pronoun feature. The release endeavors to help our users feel more included, able to express themselves and be seen.
While pronoun sharing can be particularly important to LGBTIQ+ community members, we also recognize that using pronouns truly benefits everyone, enabling all to better share about themselves and be more respectfully treated on the Zoom platform. Some common examples of pronouns are he/him/his, she/her/hers, and they/them/theirs. In addition, people are also increasingly using multiple pronouns simultaneously to speak to gender fluidity and or non-binary identities: she/them; he/them.
In introducing the pronouns feature, we hope this will help everyone feel better able to express themselves and respectfully address others, which ultimately leads to a stronger culture of connectivity and an improved communications experience.
“Pronouns are how people refer to one another when not using their name. Using someone’s correct pronouns is akin to pronouncing their name correctly. This small but significant sign of respect goes a long way in creating an environment where everyone can show up, be seen, and addressed respectfully as who they are,” said Alex Schmider, associate director for transgender representation at GLAAD (Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation).
The Office of Information Technology encourages you to consider adding pronouns to your profile in an effort to build on the sense of belonging and inclusion.
Resources:
- CU Denver's Office of Equity has an informative page on gender visibility (at the bottom of the page, there is quite a bit of helpful information on pronouns and preferred pronouns)
- NPR - A Guide to Understanding Gender Identity and Pronouns
- GSLEN: Pronoun guide
Guest Contributor: Office of Information Technology
