Trump administration, Pronouns, and the Politics of Inclusive Language

 

In the ongoing culture war, inclusive language has become a lightning rod—especially when it comes to gender-neutral pronouns.

Donald Trump and many conservative leaders have mocked the use of they/them pronouns and derided efforts to use gender-inclusive language as 'woke nonsense' or 'anti-science.'

But the debate is about more than grammar—it’s about dignity, identity, and who gets to be seen and respected in public life.

What Are Gender-Neutral Pronouns?

Gender-neutral pronouns—such as they/them, ze/zir, or neopronouns—are used by individuals who don’t identify strictly as male or female. These pronouns allow people to express their gender identity in ways that feel authentic and affirming. More on pronouns: https://www.mypronouns.org/

Trump’s Rhetoric on “Woke Language”

Donald Trump has frequently mocked the use of inclusive pronouns, calling them absurd or unscientific. In speeches, he’s ridiculed schools, corporations, and government agencies that recognize nonbinary identities or adopt inclusive language policies. This rhetoric is designed to belittle progress in gender equity and stoke backlash among conservative voters.

Why Inclusive Language Matters

Inclusive language is not about policing speech—it’s about acknowledging that language shapes reality. Using someone’s correct pronouns is a basic act of respect, just like using their correct name. Studies show that inclusive environments improve mental health, particularly for LGBTQ+ youth. Learn more: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/research-briefs/affirming-transgender-youths-names-and-pronouns/

The Backlash and Its Consequences

Mocking or outlawing the use of inclusive language can have real harms. It marginalizes already vulnerable groups and signals that their identities are not valid. It also fuels anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment and undermines efforts to create workplaces, schools, and communities that respect diversity and human dignity.

Language, Identity, and Respect

1. Use the pronouns people ask you to use.
2. Support inclusive policies in education, healthcare, and the workplace.
3. Push back against rhetoric that dehumanizes or ridicules identity.
4. Recognize that inclusive language is a key part of social progress.

The fight over pronouns is not about grammar—it’s about who counts. In a time of growing polarization, using inclusive language is one of the simplest, most powerful ways to affirm humanity and equality.