Gender-Neutral Language

Gender-neutral language was a hot topic this week across the globe. Multiple articles discussed that staff at Australian National University are attempting to incorporate more gender-neutral language for maternity research. This includes using words like “gestational parent” and “non-birthing parent” rather than mother and father in order to be more inclusive towards LGBTQ+ individuals. Several articles are discussing one of the most popular dictionaries in Germany, Duden, and their recent addition of gender-neutral occupational terms instead of masculine nouns. While the masculine form is generally used to refer to most occupations, the Duden is adding gender-neutral terms. One article discussed the rise in gender-neutral language and its importance, mentioning Australian National University and Duden. The article highlighted  how gender-neutral language allows all members of society to feel seen without prioritizing language.

Town council in Boonton, New Jersey has eliminated the title “alderman” for a gender neutral “council member”. Meanwhile, Board members of the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association have voted against changing their name to be gender neutral. In the United Kingdom there is currently a campaign to include the gender-neutral “Mx.” longside titles such as “Mr., Mrs., and Ms.” on company forms.