Greenheart is Committed to a Diverse and Inclusive Space for All
“Did you get an email back from her?” “Did he submit his application?” “When is he scheduled to arrive?” These seemingly common interactions are often said in the workplace, but for those who do not identify with the pronouns ‘her’ or ‘he’ this could be offensive. Instead of assuming we know an individual’s preferred gender pronoun (PGP), we should ask, “ What are your preferred pronouns?”
At Greenheart one of our core values is We are Inclusive of All Worldviews. We appreciate that everyone has a unique worldview and value everyone regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender or gender identity, ability, military status, religion, sexual orientation or political view. We are committed to building relationships and ensuring everyone we encounter feels welcomed, respected, and accepted. Which is why it’s important to gain greater awareness and new perspectives to create a safe, affirming and inclusive space for all!
What kind of pronouns may be used?
- He, him, his and she, her, hers
- These pronouns are most common. They are traditionally referred to as masculine or feminine pronouns, but some prefer to avoid these labels, as it may allow for unwanted stereotypes.
- They/Them/Theirs
- Although this pronoun is typically used as a plural, it can also be used singularly. Examples “Jamel like cookies. Chocolate chip is their favorite flavor.”
- Ze/Zie/XE (all pronounced like “Zee”), replaces she/he/they
- Hir (pronounced like “here”), replaces her/hers/him/his/they/theirs
- These pronouns are referred to as gender neutral
- Name preference
- Some people prefer to not use pronouns and would like their names to be used instead.
NEVER refer to anyone as “it” or “he/she”. If you are ever unsure of a person’s PGP, use their name.
Why is it important to respect PGPs?
- Asking an individual about their PGP is a simple way to show you welcome and respect all gender identities
- Using the incorrect pronoun can be offensive and could make the individual feel less than welcomed
- You shouldn’t assume and can’t always determine someone’s PGP by looking at the person
Here are a few highlights of what we have been doing, as well as some of our future plans to celebrate diversity and global understanding:
- Current and Ongoing Diversity and Inclusion initiatives
- Recruiting and posting from a diverse group of social media sites and career boards to attract and retain a diverse workforce
- Our website and marketing materials reflect our work in the global community
- Gender neutral restrooms
- Custom User-defined fields with preferred names
- Diversity and Inclusion Training for All Staff
- Hosting lunch-n-learns highlighting various countries (we discuss food, customs, language, and other cultural experiences)
- Upcoming Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
- Adding PGP preferences on all Outlook signature profiles for Greenheart staff
- Creating custom reports so preferences are listed
- Reviewing and updating documents and databases when possible
- Reviewing and continually updating our policies