The World Observe International Pronouns Day

 International Pronouns Day began in 2018 and takes place on the 3rd Wednesday of October each year. 

The campaign has no central body but however has an official website dedicated with all the resources for individuals and organisations that wish to create an inclusive environment. 

People are encouraged to use the hashtag on this day #PronounsDay. And even with that suggestions people are encouraged to be creative and come up with hashtags that will speak to the core business of this day. 

What is this day all about?

On this particular day, we are to learn about the importance of using the correct pronouns when referring to others. 

The importance of using the correct pronouns 

Believe it or not, referencing others especially people who identify as transgender, non-binary, gender nonconforming, and gender-fluid, has serious negative effects on their mental health. 

When people opt to use pronouns that an individual prefers, in that instance, that person creates an environment that fosters inclusion, makes people feel respected and valued, and affirms their gender identity. 

In a 2016 study it was found that the correct use of pronouns was associated with lower rates of depression and an increase in the self-esteem of transgender people. 

Mental health experts globally agree that the usage of inclusive language in regard to the LGBT+ youth and adults drastically decreases experiences of social anxiety, suicidal ideation, and other mental health issues. 

Where is South In terms of the acceptance and use of gender pronouns?

Last year the Department of Basic Education introduced some guidelines in schools that included the elimination of the use of pronouns in schools to accommodate the queer learners. 

This was met with a lot of anger as expected with the majority of the country religious. 

Some organisations that are alleged to have ties with the American anti-LGBT organisation said that this is the violation of Christian learner's and their parents rights and that it is "ungodly" and "anti-family". 

The South African media often use incorrect pronouns when reporting on local celebrities who prefer certain pronouns. 

An example is the Ukhozi FM drive-time co-host , Selby Beyonce, who is a transsexual. The media keeps on referring to her as a gay man. 

Another celebrity, Thishiwe Ziqubu,who is an actor, had to fight and tell people that prefers the pronouns Them/they. 

And Nakhane, the alternative non-binary artist, is often misgendered by the media. 

And this is despite the guidelines and training that was offered to journalists by the South African Editors Form.