It isn’t new when someone of the LGBT Community corrects someone on a specific term that they are using incorrectly. Most people would feel embarrassed of not using the correct term or misusing one. We can all agree that when we say something with confidence and it turns out to be wring we feel humiliated. However, University of Toronto psychology professor Jordan Peterson, has had enough of gender -neutral pronouns. He is frustrated of being asked to use alternatives like Ze, Zir or Zirs when referring to transgender individuals.
Most people find his reluctance to accommodate to other individuals’ preference as disrespectful and discriminatory. Transgender individuals created those alternative pronouns because they do not feel comfortable associating with one specific gender. However, Professor Peterson does not believe in altering language for people who chose to change their vocabulary to accommodate their own needs.
In 2012, under Canada’s Bill C-16, discrimination under the Canadian Human Rights Act on the basis of gender identity and expression is prohibited. Although Professor Peterson’s refusal of using alternative pronouns cannot and most likely will not be considered as discriminatory behavior it still creates controversy and tensions.
Overall, the conflict of interest is the use of alternative pronouns. If both parties accommodate or find middle ground than there is no problem and no one steps on anyone else’s toes.
