At Neal Gerber Eisenberg, we are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves. One of the simplest yet most meaningful ways we can support this commitment is by recognizing and using each person’s correct pronouns. Pronouns are not just words; they are an essential part of our identities, and respecting them is a fundamental act of inclusion and a powerful way to affirm the dignity of our colleagues, clients and community
Why Pronouns Matter
Using the correct pronouns:
- Demonstrates respect for their identity
- Helps prevent assumptions based on appearance or name
- Fosters a culture of belonging and psychological safety
At NGE, we encourage everyone to include their pronouns in their email signatures and attorney biographies. These small actions help normalize the conversation around gender identity and help everyone to feel seen and respected.
Respecting Pronouns in Practice
Inclusion is an ongoing practice. Here are a few ways to support respectful pronoun use:
- Introduce yourself with your pronouns: “Hi, I’m Michael. I use he/him pronouns. How about you?”
- If you’re unsure, ask politely – and listen
If you make a mistake, correct yourself and move on. It is okay to get it wrong sometimes; what matters is your willingness to learn
Key Terms and Concepts for Inclusion and Understanding
Gender Pronouns
Gender Expression
Gender Identity
Gender Binary
Cisgender
Transgender
Gender Fluid
Non-Binary
Gender Nonconforming
Creating an Inclusive Environment
At NGE, we are committed to continuous learning and improvement in our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. We provide ongoing training and resources to help our attorneys and staff understand the importance of pronouns and how to use them respectfully. By fostering an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their pronouns and properly using others’ pronouns, we can create a more inclusive, supportive, and collaborative workplace for all.
