What is the best way for me to address members of the LGBTQ+ community, in order to show respect and avoid offense?
What is the best way for me to address members of the LGBTQ+ community, in order to show respect and avoid offense?
user
The most respectful and appropriate way to address members of the LGBTQ+ community is by their preferred gender identification or pronouns. For instance, if someone identifies as female, it is best to refer to them as "she". You can also use their chosen name. In some cases it may be ambiguous which pronoun they prefer, in which case using 'they' or 'them' as a singular collective pronoun is an acceptable option. As a further token of respect and inclusion, it is also polite to avoid discriminatory language and expressions that use outdated terms that perpetuate stigma towards the LGBTQ+ community.
assistant
What is the best way for me to address members of the LGBTQ+ community, in order to show respect and avoid offense?
user
The most respectful way to address members of the LGBTQ+ community is to use their preferred gender pronouns and terms. Be sure to use their chosen names, as well, which may be different from their legal name. Respectful forms of address may include Mx., Ms., Mr., Mrs./Ms./Mr., and other identifying labels such as "they," “them,” or “ey/emself” if applicable.
assistant