(Sharon McCutcheon/Unsplash)

What are your pronouns?

I feel like people ask this question more and more now. When I first moved to Canada and was asked the first time, I found it strange because I wasn’t really used to being asked that question.

In the Philippines, we already have a gender-neutral way to address people: “Siya/Sila”.

Siya can mean she or he, depending on the context and Sila means they.

For example, Mahal ko siya. // Mahal ko sila.

Translation: I love her/him. // I love them.

I understand now that using someone’s correct personal pronouns is important. It’s a way to show respect. It creates an inclusive environment, and it affirms a person’s gender identity. In contrast, using the wrong pronouns can be offensive or even harmful and oppressive.

A lot of people have started adding their pronouns on their LinkedIn and Facebook profiles, others, even on Zoom.

(Solen Feyissa/Unsplash)

Just today, Instagram has started offering users a dedicated profile section to share their pronouns. I think it’s amazing when companies go the extra mile to advocate for diversity and inclusion through their products and services.

To add your pronouns on Instagram, make sure your app is updated to its latest version before following these steps.

(Courtesy of Fast Company)

Currently, it’s possible that you might not see your specific pronouns. If that’s the case, you can add them to your bio or let Instagram know what you prefer so they may be able to add it in the future.

It only takes a minute to add your preferred pronouns on the app. I highly encourage you to do so because the more that people do, the more we can normalize this behaviour, progress as a society, and foster an inclusive world.

(Clay Banks/Unsplash)

So… what are your pronouns? Let us know in the comments!

Mine are she, her, and hers.