Exploring Gender Diversity

In this class, we explore how the binary view of gender as either male or female has changed significantly and that gender is commonly understood as existing along a continuum. I provide participants with vocabulary and tools to navigate the complexities and tremendous range of gender diversity.  We will explore the meaning of gender-related terminology like LGBTQ+, gender, sex, gender diversity, gender expression, and sexual orientation.

A significant portion of the class is devoted to examining the significance of gender pronouns, the words that individuals use to refer to themselves (such as he/his, she/her, and they/them). We will explore why respecting someone else’s gender pronouns and sharing your own gender pronouns creates a more inclusive and welcoming environment for your colleagues and your customers or clients, regardless of whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community.  Last, we will discuss practical ways to avoid using gendered language that can unintentionally exclude individuals.