The classroom experience, be it in person or online, is core to the student experience at Sonoma State. It is absolutely crucial that the diverse gender identities of our students be fully recognized and affirmed in academic spaces. If students’ gender identities are not honored by their instructors and peers, psychological harm can ensue. As faculty you have tremendous influence in creating learning spaces that avoid harm and enable trans students to flourish.
Modeling gender inclusive language and respecting students’ pronouns and names help set the tone for trans affirming spaces. It conveys to the student that who they are matters to you. This enables them to be fully present in their academic experience.
The following are a set of inclusive practices and resources for creating trans affirming classrooms and online spaces. Engaging in these practices go a long way in modeling belonging and support for all students, especially transgender students, non-binary students, gender questioning students, and other diverse identities.
Resources
- Why Pronouns Matter (Canvas Commons Importable Page)
- 1st Day Student Questions on Preferred Name and Pronouns (Canvas Commons Importable Quiz)
- Sonoma State Preferred Name & Pronouns Guide: PeopleSoft, Zoom, & Canvas