Gender-neutralized
The act of modifying or designing something, such as language, policies, products, or environments, to be inclusive of all genders and to avoid distinctions based on traditional gender roles. This involves eliminating gender-specific assumptions, biases, and stereotypes, ensuring that the object or concept is accessible and respectful to individuals regardless of their gender identity or expression. The aim is to create a fair and equitable system that promotes inclusivity and avoids discrimination. The process can involve changing language, removing gendered assumptions in designs, or creating policies that consider all genders.
Gender-neutralized meaning with examples
- The company's HR department has gender-neutralized its employee handbook, replacing gendered pronouns and terms with inclusive language. The dress code was also adjusted to be more flexible, allowing employees to choose attire that aligns with their gender identity, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and respected in the workplace. This initiative aims to create a more inclusive and welcoming work environment for all employees.
- The architect gender-neutralized the public restrooms in the new community center by creating a single-stall, all-gender bathroom layout. This eliminates the need to assign restrooms by sex, providing a safer and more comfortable experience for transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, as well as for parents with children of a different gender.
- The children's book was gender-neutralized to appeal to all children, featuring characters with diverse interests and avoiding traditional gender stereotypes. The story focuses on themes of friendship and courage, not defining behaviors by gender or assigning roles to certain character types. The goal is to reflect diversity and foster positive messages for all young readers.
- The marketing team gender-neutralized its advertising campaigns by moving away from using stereotypical portrayals of men and women. Their new ads emphasize product benefits applicable to everyone and represent people of various backgrounds and identities, ensuring the brand’s message resonates with a broader audience and doesn't alienate potential customers.
- The school curriculum was gender-neutralized, revising textbooks and lesson plans to avoid gender bias. This included eliminating language that assumes students' interests or abilities are based on gender and creating equitable participation opportunities in all subjects, like mathematics, science, and arts, promoting inclusivity for all students.