In today’s blog I want to share the second edition of my Pronouns And Belonging In The Workplace eBook where you can learn:
- What a pronoun is,
- Why it matters,
- What to do when you mess up (everyone messes up, it’s cool),
- And some advice for parents and allies trying to stand up for what’s right.
You can get a copy here. A lot has changed since that first draft, so I worked with my team to update this eBook for a new reality as a weapon in the “war” against DEI. Because love can win, if we’re willing to start with a little education.
I wrote the first edition of this pronoun and belonging eBook about 6 years ago. I was just starting to come out to the people who love me and weighing if I wanted to come out online. As much as I enjoy writing and sharing my life, I think some part of me wondered if being trans would stand between me and my dreams. I didn’t know a single trans or non-binary person in real life then, at least not anyone I’d call for advice or trust.
I know this thought only entered my mind because I have lost people I love for being who I am. This isn’t some imaginary consequence; it has been very real for me. Losing a relationship with someone you love is so much bigger than losing a deal. It made me wonder if being who I am was a choice. If I could just choose something different.
I decided to reveal my truth anyway. The initial wave of support was overwhelming to say the least. I felt more loved and seen than I had in a very long time. As I navigated these new conversations and questions with people who wanted to be considerate of me, I found they had the same questions as the people I loved. How do I help? How did you know? What do I do if I get this wrong?
So I wrote down those answers and for the last 6 years, I’ve spent my time telling these stories in hopes that someday it can be different.
So read this. Write about it. Share it. If you need a speaker, call me. We will only change the world if we work together. More on that here.