Pronouns for Instagram: Why They Matter and How to Use Them Effectively

Introduction

In recent years, social media platforms, including Instagram, have evolved to be more inclusive, allowing users to share more about their identities. One such evolution is the option to display pronouns. This feature reflects growing awareness and respect for gender diversity, helping individuals communicate how they prefer to be addressed. Whether you are new to the concept or looking for tips to make your profile more inclusive, this article explores why pronouns matter on Instagram, how to use them, and how to be respectful of others’ choices.

What Are Pronouns?

Pronouns are the words used in place of a person’s name. Traditionally, pronouns like “he” and “she” align with the gender assigned to a person at birth. However, as society becomes more aware of gender diversity, more people identify outside the binary framework of male and female. Therefore, inclusive pronouns like “they/them,” “ze/zir,” or “she/they” have become more common.

Using someone’s correct pronouns is a simple yet meaningful way to show respect for their identity. On Instagram, users now have the ability to include their pronouns directly in their profiles, which makes it easier to communicate their preferences without assumptions.

Why Are Pronouns Important on Instagram?

1. Fostering Inclusivity and Respect:
   Displaying pronouns signals that you are mindful of gender diversity and respect individual identities. It normalizes asking and sharing pronouns rather than making assumptions about someone’s gender.
2. Building Safe Online Spaces:
   For many non-binary and transgender individuals, social media can be a refuge where they connect with like-minded people. Visible pronouns in profiles help create a welcoming space where users feel seen and respected.
3. Increasing Awareness and Education:
   When users share their pronouns openly, it encourages others to learn about different gender identities. It promotes a broader understanding of the nuances of gender, helping to dispel misconceptions.
4. Simplifying Conversations:
   Including pronouns on Instagram helps prevent misgendering in direct messages or comments. It removes uncertainty, making communication smoother and more respectful from the outset.

How to Add Pronouns to Your Instagram Profile

Instagram has made it easy to add pronouns to your bio without using up valuable character space. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open Instagram: Go to your profile and click on “Edit Profile.”
2. Find the Pronouns Field: Under the “Profile Information” section, click on “Pronouns.”
3. Choose Your Pronouns: Instagram provides a list of options, including popular choices like “she/her,” “he/him,” and “they/them.” You can select up to four pronouns.
4. Control Visibility: Choose whether your pronouns are visible to everyone or just your followers by adjusting the visibility settings.
5. Save Changes: Click “Done” to save your profile updates.

Examples of Common Pronouns for Instagram

• He/Him/His: Used by individuals identifying as male.
• She/Her/Hers: Used by individuals identifying as female.
• They/Them/Theirs: A gender-neutral option often used by non-binary people.
• She/They or He/They: These mixed pronouns reflect fluidity in identity, used by those comfortable with both sets.
• Ze/Zir/Zirs: Less common but used as gender-neutral pronouns.

Adding these pronouns to your profile shows that you respect the identity preferences of yourself and others.

Tips for Using Pronouns Respectfully on Instagram

1. Use Pronouns as Displayed:
   If someone lists pronouns on their profile, use them consistently in comments, messages, or when mentioning them in stories.
2. Normalize Sharing Pronouns:
   You don’t need to identify as non-binary or transgender to share your pronouns. By including them in your profile, you normalize the practice and make it easier for others to do the same.
3. Ask When Unsure:
   If a user hasn’t listed their pronouns, it’s okay to ask politely in a private message rather than assuming. For example, you could say, “Hi, I just want to make sure I address you correctly—what pronouns do you use?”
4. Avoid Gendered Language in Comments:
   If you’re unsure of someone’s pronouns or if they haven’t listed them, stick to neutral terms like “they” or simply use their name.
5. Respect Changes:
   People’s pronouns might change over time. If someone updates their pronouns, adjust how you refer to them accordingly, and don’t make a fuss about it.
6. Educate Others:
   If someone makes a mistake or uses the wrong pronouns, gently correct them. Normalizing correction ensures a more inclusive and respectful community.

Challenges and Misconceptions Around Pronouns on Instagram

Despite Instagram’s efforts to promote inclusivity, the use of pronouns can still encounter resistance or misunderstanding. Some users may feel uncomfortable sharing their pronouns or fear judgment. Others might not fully understand why it matters. Here are some common misconceptions:

1. “Only non-binary or trans people need pronouns.”
   False. Everyone uses pronouns. Sharing pronouns is not restricted to the LGBTQ+ community—it’s a practice that benefits everyone by eliminating assumptions.
2. “Using someone’s correct pronouns is optional.”
   Not respecting someone’s pronouns can come off as dismissive or disrespectful. It’s essential to use them consistently to honor the individual’s identity.
3. “It’s confusing to use they/them as singular.”
   English has used “they” as a singular pronoun for centuries, particularly when referring to someone whose gender is unknown. It’s just a matter of getting used to it.
4. “It’s inconvenient to update pronouns.”
   Instagram allows quick and easy profile updates, making it simple to change pronouns as needed. This feature ensures users can express their identity accurately at all times.

Final Thoughts

The option to include pronouns on Instagram is more than just a profile feature—it’s a step towards a more inclusive and respectful online space. Whether you’re updating your own profile or engaging with others, using pronouns correctly fosters empathy, understanding, and community. Everyone has a role to play in creating an environment where people feel safe to express themselves authentically.

By making small but meaningful changes, such as adding pronouns to your Instagram bio and respecting those of others, we contribute to a culture that values diversity and inclusion. So, take a moment to update your profile today—it’s a simple act that can make a significant difference.