Name: Language around gender and identity evolves (and always has)
Uploaded: 2021-03-31T15:07:38Z
Duration: 13 min 17 s
Description: Dictionaries and grammar "rules" don't have the final word on language -- and believing they do can harm more than help, especially for the trans community. Sociolinguist Archie Crowley deconstructs three common myths around language, demonstrating how it's a fluid system that naturally evolves in the direction of inclusion.

Dictionaries and grammar "rules" don't have the final word on language -- and believing they do can harm more than help, especially for the trans community. Sociolinguist Archie Crowley deconstructs three common myths around language, demonstrating how it's a fluid system that naturally evolves in the direction of inclusion.

Archie Crowley: Language around gender and identity evolves (and always has)

Language around gender and identity evolves (and always has)

Grammar and dictionaries evolve, reflecting society's shifting beliefs and practices, especially in affirming trans identities.

The singular 'they' and evolving pronouns challenge traditional grammar, mirroring historical shifts like 'thou' to 'you'.

Asking and adapting to preferred pronouns or names is key to respecting and affirming trans identities, akin to learning any new term.