Thread by @sbearbergman

In honor of Labor Day, here’s some free #trans labor for you: a solid three-step method to getting someone’s #pronouns right every time.

1. Hold yourself accountable for corrections. At first, you’re going to make mistakes. That’s not great, though it’s expected. BUT:

To gain competence, correct yourself every time.

This is not the time to do a big extensive apology or get in your feelings or start offering your thoughts about why you’re struggling. Just say “Sorry. SHE said...” Apologize briefly, correct, carry on. Every time.

2. Empower others to hold you accountable. Learning requires being correct *even when the person isn’t there to hear your error*. Ask all the relevant people - family, colleagues, friends, &c - to please remind you when you mess up. Then do step one again “Sorry, SHE said...”

3. Nervous? Practice ahead, out loud. Before you call: “I’m going to ask Morgan whether THEY have the March sales figures ready.” Before you go: “Jack and I are going to the mall so HE and I can shop for ties.” Don’t just think it, say it out loud 3x for best retention.

That, friends, is all it takes. If you do these three things *consistently* you’ll be 99% correct. Will you ever mess up? Probably. Does that suck? Yes. But you can improve to almost perfect, show your support/respect, and set a good example in six months or less.

Why do this? 1. It’s appropriate, respectful, and sometimes required. 2. Your #trans & #nonbinary friends, family, coworkers will feel better and safer. 3. Be a person who increases respect, bravery and liberation in the world.

Okay, go.

#bestpractices
#knowbetterdobetter