LINK to March 2023 SOGIE Newsletter
The Center of Excellence on LGBTQ+ Behavioral Health Equity (CoE LGBTQ+ BHE) has created this language guidance related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression (SOGIE), as a resource for behavioral health practitioners to understand better the most recent language used in LGBTQ+ communities. This list is not exhaustive, and they encourage professionals to gain a broader foundation on this knowledge by watching their foundational webinars – Sexual Orientation & Behavioral Health 101 and Gender Identity, Expression & Behavioral Health 101, available at: https://lgbtqequity.org/learn/.
It should be noted that people use language in different ways, the best practice is always to honor the language an individual uses to identify themselves.
Why are pronouns important?
Honoring someone’s pronouns demonstrates respect and affirms one’s identity. It’s important not to assume someone’s pronouns. If you aren’t sure, use reflective listening, ask respectfully, or simply stick to their name! If you accidentally misgender someone (it happens!), make sure to give a genuine apology without defensiveness, swiftly move on without making it a big deal, and commit to getting it right moving forward.
Click here to watch a video, “Why Pronouns Matter” from Columbia University and here for more information from BBI.