House language becomes gender neutral.» (about time)

[ensho]

http://thinkprogress.org/2009/01/06/house-gender-neutral/


In its new package of rule changes, the House has finally decided to make its official language gender neutral, recognizing the growing representation of women in Congress (including as Speaker of the House). Gone are references to “he,” “chairman,” and phrases such as “his duties.” From the resolution:

-this snip wouldn't copy-

Read the full list of changes here (gender neutrality language beginning on p. 9).
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[frazzled]

1. Gender-neutral language surprisingly easy to get used to, and incredibly helpful

I am remembering back to the early or mid 1990s, when our Reform Temple (Jewish) hired an female assistant rabbi. The first thing she did was to insist on the employment of gender-neutral language in services. This was met at first with raised eyebrows, and some consternation, for it changed the pace and phrasing of liturgy that people had been used to for years. The word "Lord," or "He" could no longer be used to refer to the deity. It was amazing how quickly people accepted these changes for the better. And now, having moved on, on the few occasions I have had recourse to sit in on a religious service, I find it odd -- and nearly impossible to pronounce or digest -- the old patriarchic language.

Bravo for Congress. It's about time.

[Captain Hilts]

2. I just use 'their' instead of 'his'. Easy. nt

[NightWatcher]

3. "their" technically has "he" in the middle

:rofl:

[Captain Hilts]

4. Funny!