As a committed partner and ally to the LGBTQ+ community, Amara shares our pronouns. Do you know this practice? If you receive an email from someone at Amara, you’ll likely see the pronouns that staff member uses in their signature line. If you attend a meeting with Amara staff, you may hear some folks introduce themselves with their preferred pronoun: “Hi, I’m Ruth. I use she/her pronouns.”… “My name’s Reese. I go by they/them.” … “I’m John. He/him for me.” You may see attendees with nametags that also include their pronouns.
We take pride in identifying the pronouns we use for ourselves. We also recognize this practice may not be right for everyone. We encourage employees to share their pronouns if they wish but it is not compulsory.
LGBTQ+ youth are disproportionately represented in foster care. A study by the Williams Institute found that there are “1.5 to 2 times as many LGBTQ youth living in foster care as LGBTQ youth estimated to be living outside of foster care.” In recognition of the need for greater supports for these youth, we have built programming and support groups for LGBTQ+ youth and families.
But advocating for our culture to be more inclusive is important too – even with something as simple as sharing our pronouns. It’s no small thing to affirm someone’s identity and offer a sense of belonging. Indeed, it can be lifesaving.
Amara has a long history working with and supporting LGBTQ+ youth and families and supporting our non-binary and trans partners, parents, children, and community. Reminding folks that you go by “she/her” creates a space where it’s safe to be “they/them.” Our commitment to sharing pronouns is just one part of our ongoing effort to build a more inclusive, welcoming environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
For more information, check out this powerful article about sharing pronouns.