Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, & Accessibility

Gender Identity: Gender identity is an internal sense of where a person falls on the scale of masculinity and femininity (or both, or neither!). A person’s gender identity may or may not be the same as their biological sex. For example, a person could be born with a penis, but identify as a female. We are often taught that a person’s biological sex should be the same as their gender, but this is an outdated teaching. Human beings are diverse and this is something to be honoured and celebrated!

Gender Expression: Gender expression refers to the behaviours and characteristics that a person presents (intentionally or not) that demonstrate their gender identity. Examples of ways that people express their gender include clothing, hair styles, mannerisms, speech patterns, etc.

Halifax Sexual Health Centre

It is important to acknowledge and use a person's correct pronouns when talking to or about them. Pronouns are a very important part of someone's identity, and through using a person's chosen pronouns you are affirming their gender identity and fostering an inclusive environment. 

If you are unsure of a person's pronouns you can always ask them directly or use gender neutral pronouns to address them.