Pronouns are "a word that are often used to refer to a noun". These can come in the example of She/Her, He/Him or They/Them. However, pronouns don’t equal gender. In the same manner as pronouns should not be isolated to gender, someone who identifies as a women can have she/they pronouns or even neopronouns. 

Neopronouns are defined as pronouns more aligned with the individual, it is there "authentic selves beyond traditional pronouns" [2]. An example of this is the pronouns: ze/zir/zirs for instance. [3]

International Pronouns Day, 21st October 2026, is a day dedicated to the awareness, uses, and history of pronouns. It is a day to learn more about them and appreciate what pronouns mean to everyone. How you can do this is to recognise and embrace the importance of pronouns. For a lot of people pronouns can be incredibly important to their identity and who they are. Using a persons correct pronouns is about being respectful and kind to others everyday, not just on International Pronoun Day.

If you want to find out more about pronouns or want to pick up a pronoun badge come to our International Pronoun Day stall in the Hub on the 21st of October. If you missed it, come along to any LGBTQIA+ Students Community Event, and there'll usually be some pronoun badges. 

For more information on the history of pronouns check out 'The History of Thon, the Forgotten Gender-Neutral Pronoun' [5].

If you would like learn more about the importance of pronouns a great study is the 'Understanding the Mental Health of Transgender and Non Binary Youth' [4].

Using the correct pronouns makes a more inclusive world. It is as simple as a nickname, just personal preference. Pronouns are not overwhelming or troublesome unless made to be. Adjusting the pronouns you use for someone can take some time as pronouns can be a bit of a habit but it is a simple change that can make a big impact.  

LINKS: 

[1] PRONOUN | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary )

[2]  The Evolution of Neopronouns: From Emergence to Mainstream - Rainbow Directory of New Zealand

[3] Everything you need to know about neopronouns - LGBTQ Nation

[4] Understanding the Mental Health of Transgender and Nonbinary Youth - ScienceDirect

[5] The History of Thon, the Forgotten Gender-Neutral Pronoun | Merriam-Webster