Plexus Education Foundation Presents
Inclusive Communication & Pronoun Confidence
Description
In English, whether we realize it or not, people frequently refer to us using pronouns when speaking about us. Often, when speaking of a singular human in the third person, these pronouns have a gender implied, such as “he” to refer to a man/boy or “she” to refer to a woman/girl. These associations are not always accurate or helpful. Understanding the importance of gender-neutral language and pronouns and the impact of using the correct language is an important step of creating a workplace of belonging. Gain the skills and confidence to use inclusive language and navigate pronouns with sensitivity. This training helps participants strengthen communication and build respectful, welcoming spaces.
Objectives
- Understand why language matters in fostering belonging.
- Practice using pronouns and gender-inclusive language.
- Recognize and avoid exclusionary phrasing.
- Respond effectively if mistakes occur
Components
- Explore how entrenched gendered language is in our vocabulary and the workplace.
- Identify common workplace situations where we can be inclusive in our language, written and verbal.
- Develop understanding of pronouns beyond the binary ones used in most workplaces.
- Understand common mistakes when learning inclusive language and actions to take to avoid them and also reacting after mistakes are made.
- Foster a supportive and inclusive workplace culture: Through exercises and group discussions, participants will explore ways to cultivate a culture of inclusivity, respect, and acceptance within their work environments.
Recommended Reading
Bach, M. (2022). Alphabet soup: The essential guide to LGBTQ2+ inclusion at work. Page Two.
Baron, D. (2020). What's your pronoun?: Beyond he and she. Liveright.
Bourne, S. (2021). Allies: Real Talk About Showing Up, Screwing Up, and Trying Again. DK, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.
Brouillard-Coyle, S. (2023). A pocket guide to pronouns. FriesenPress.
Brown, J. D. (2023). The souls of Queer folk: How understanding LGBTQ+ culture can transform your leadership practice. Publish Your Purpose Press.
Fowlkes, A. C. (2024). Transgender inclusion: All the things you want to ask your transgender coworker but shouldn't. Wiley.
Gainsburg, J. (2020). The savvy ally: A guide for becoming a skilled LGBTQ+ advocate. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers.
Getty, S. (2020). How to They/Them: A Visual Guide to Nonbinary Pronouns and the World of Gender Fluidity. Sasquatch Books.
Gibson, S. (2018). Gender diversity and non-binary inclusion in the workplace. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Grace, J. T. (2017). Beyond the rainbow: Personal stories and practical strategies to help your business & workplace connect with the LGBTQ market. Publish Your Purpose Press.
Hall, D. M. (2009). Allies at work: Creating a lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender inclusive work environment. Out & Equal Workplace Advocates.
Hunter-Neill, M. (2024). The Safety of Language: A Guide and Workbook for Staff Working with LGBTQIA+ Young People in Care. Author.
Koenecke, L. (2021). Be an Inclusion Ally: ABCs of LGBTQ+. Lisa Koenecke, LLC.
McWhorter, J. (2025). Pronoun trouble: The story of us in seven little words. Avery.
Michael, A. J. (2025). Gender Inclusion at Work: A Guide to Supporting Transgender & Nonbinary Employees, Clients & Colleagues. Publish Your Purpose.
Parker, A. (2024). Pride everyday: Empowering LGBTQ+ pride in the workplace and beyond. Notion Press.
Pronouns.org. (n.d.). What and Why: What are personal pronouns and why do they matter? Retrieved from https://pronouns.org/what-and-why
Shane, K. (2021). Creating an LGBT+ inclusive workplace. Routledge.
Walsh, B. A. (2024). Pronouns in Practice: A Creative Solution for Building Inclusive Language. Author.
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