How to Say “My Pronouns Are” in American Sign Language (ASL)

Understanding and respecting individuals’ preferred pronouns is an essential part of fostering an inclusive environment. In American Sign Language (ASL), expressing your pronouns can be done through a combination of signs and facial expressions. To help you navigate this topic, this guide will provide you with both formal and informal ways of saying “My pronouns are” in ASL, along with some tips, regional variations (if applicable), and numerous examples.

Formal Way to Say “My Pronouns Are” in ASL

When communicating in a more formal setting or with individuals who prefer a more standard approach, you can sign “My Pronouns Are” in ASL using the following steps:

1. Begin by placing your non-dominant open hand, palm up, slightly below your chin, with your fingers pointing toward your dominant side.
2. Using your dominant hand, form an ‘index finger’ handshape, and place it gently on your non-dominant palm.
3. While keeping the ‘index finger’ handshape on your palm, raise your non-dominant hand to your cheekbone, just below your eye.
4. At the same time, tilt your head slightly to the side and hold a neutral facial expression. This facial expression indicates that you are providing factual information.
5. Finally, maintain this position temporarily, and fingerspell or sign your chosen pronouns.

For example, if your preferred pronouns are “she/her,” you would fingerspell “S-H-E” while maintaining the hand placement and facial expression mentioned above.

This formal way of expressing pronouns in ASL displays clarity and can be particularly useful in professional or educational settings where clear communication and understanding are essential.

Informal Way to Say “My Pronouns Are” in ASL

In more casual situations or when communicating with friends, referring to your pronouns can be done in a slightly different manner. Here’s the informal way:

1. Start by forming an ‘F’ handshape with both hands.
2. Place your dominant hand’s thumb at the base of your neck, while extending your fingers upward.
3. Using a relaxed facial expression, gently tap your dominant hand’s ‘F’ handshape against the base of your non-dominant hand’s thumb.
4. After completing the tapping motion, fingerspell or sign your pronouns while maintaining the position of your hands.

For instance, if your preferred pronouns are “they/them,” you would fingerspell “T-H-E-Y” while completing the informal hand gesture outlined above.

This informal method is commonly used in conversational contexts among friends or peers. It allows for a more laid-back and relaxed expression of pronouns while still maintaining respect and inclusivity.

Tips for Expressing Pronouns in ASL

Here are a few tips to enhance your understanding and practice when expressing pronouns in ASL:

1. Practice Regularly: Like any language or skill, regular practice is crucial for fluency in ASL. Set aside time to practice signing your pronouns and any other phrases you may want to learn.
2. Pay Attention to Facial Expressions: Facial expressions play a vital role in conveying meaning in ASL. Practice neutral expressions when stating pronouns or other factual information.
3. Adapt to Your Preferred Signing Style: ASL often varies slightly between regions, so feel free to adapt signs or gestures to match your local or preferred signing style, as long as the message remains clear and respectful.
4. Respect Others’ Pronouns: While it’s essential to express your pronouns, equally important is respecting others’ preferences. Ask politely or pay attention to how individuals sign their own pronouns and mirror their approach when referring to them.

Examples of Pronouns in ASL

To help you further, here are examples of various pronouns in ASL:

1. He/Him: Fingerspell “H-E” with a neutral facial expression, or use a quick downward motion using your index finger, starting from your forehead.
2. She/Her: Fingerspell “S-H-E” with a neutral expression, or make a gentle upward sweep using your index finger from your chin to your forehead.
3. They/Them: Fingerspell “T-H-E-Y” with a relaxed facial expression, or create a quick circular movement horizontally in front of your chest using your index finger.
4. Ze/Hir: Fingerspell “Z-E / H-I-R” with a neutral expression, or swipe your index finger back and forth horizontally across your forehead.

“Using the appropriate pronouns not only allows for respectful communication but also promotes inclusivity and understanding for the diverse identities within our community.” – ASL Pronouns Advocate

Remember, everyone’s pronoun preferences may differ, so be open to learning and adapting to embrace the diversity of identities.

By utilizing these tips, gestures, and examples, you can confidently express your pronouns in ASL, contributing to a more inclusive and respectful environment for all.