A pronoun policy is a set of guidelines or rules that an organization or institution has put in place to ensure that individuals are referred to by the pronouns they identify with. The policy is designed to create a more inclusive environment for people of all gender identities and expressions. The following are some examples of pronoun policies:
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Ohio University: In 2015, Ohio University adopted a Name and Pronoun Policy creating the opportunity for students to be identified with the name and/or pronoun they identify with. The policy provides definitions for and uses of names and pronouns recorded for students.
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Dominican University: Dominican Universitys pronoun policy allows any student the option to indicate their pronouns in DU information systems. The policy acknowledges that pronouns should be used wherever possible, and as such, pronouns will be displayed in systems that allow for that form of identification. The policy also provides definitions for pronouns and guidelines for using them.
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MCPHS University: MCPHS Universitys pronoun policy provides students and employees the option to indicate their chosen pronouns in the Universitys information systems. The policy acknowledges that chosen pronouns must be used wherever possible, and as such, chosen pronouns will be displayed in systems that allow for that form of identification. The policy also provides definitions for pronouns and guidelines for using them.
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Workplace: A pronoun policy in the workplace can be as simple as encouraging employees to include their pronouns in their email signatures. It is important to make it clear that individuals are not required to share their pronouns, as forcing someone to identify their pronouns when they are not comfortable doing so can be disrespectful and harmful. Businesses should include language in their employee policies stipulating that employees can expect their colleagues to use the pronouns they use.
In summary, a pronoun policy is a set of guidelines or rules that an organization or institution has put in place to ensure that individuals are referred to by the pronouns they identify with. The policy is designed to create a more inclusive environment for people of all gender identities and expressions.