PROUNOUN USAGE

Cultivating A Safe Space

Rebuilding Together Philadelphia (RTP) is committed to fostering an environment of inclusiveness and supporting an individual’s pronoun expression.

At RTP, we thrive to make our space open to everyone and we do not tolerate discrimination in any form or act. Pronouns are one of the ways we express ourselves to the world and to ourselves. We encourage our community to cultivate a safe space where people of all backgrounds and identities can express themselves openly and freely with respect and consideration for others. At RTP events and spaces, we ask when writing your name to underneath write your personal pronouns. Writing your pronouns is an opportunity to others to feel safe and welcomed. When aware, use their pronouns.

Important Points:

What are Pronouns? Pronouns are a way that we express ourselves to the world and ourselves. It is a different way we call someone without saying their name. In other words, it is an extension of our identity.

Why are Pronouns important? In community spaces, when someone shares their pronouns in introductions, name tags, and causal discussions, it creates a space and opportunity for a person to self-identify and set healthy boundaries for others.

Do & Don’t Example:

Don’t: It is never okay to assume someone’s identity

Do: When introducing oneself please follow with your pronouns.

◆ Ex. “Hi, I’m Andrea, and I use they/them” or “Hi my name is John, and I go by he/him/his”

How do you know which pronouns a person prefers? If you find yourself forgetting or don’t know. Remember mistakes do happen and it’s okay if you forget. Please take accountability for your mistake and continue to use the correct pronoun. If you forget someone’s pronouns simply ask: “What pronouns do you use?” or“ Can you remind me what pronouns you use.”

What if I don’t want to Share My Pronouns? That’s completely okay! Providing space and opportunity for people to share their pronouns does not mean that everyone will feel comfortable sharing them. Some people may not feel comfortable sharing their personal pronouns for various reasons and that is okay. We ask that everyone be respectful and compassionate to others if it does come up in conversation or if it is written on their name tag.

We simply ask to do your part in building a safe and inclusive environment for all people.