Frequently Asked Questions

We, at the Women's Research Center and BGLTQ+ Student Center, thought it would be great to have some frequently asked questions about gender identities clarified. This page offers answers to FAQs about gender and sexuality. We sincerely hope that this will be helpful to you!

 

 

What are gender neutral pronouns?

Answer: Gendered pronouns are those that indicate gender: he, she, him, her, hers, his, himself and herself. All others, like "it, "one," and "they," are gender-neutral. You probably already use some gender-neutral pronouns: they, their, and them. Suppose you are expecting a call from someone of unknown gender - you might say something like: "If the person from the insurance company calls, tell them I'll call them back tomorrow."

Why do people feel uncomfortable with the male or female pronoun?

Answer: Some individuals identify themselves differently as compared to the strict "male" or "female" pronouns that exist in our language. The larger community regards gender as a simple idea - gender identity aligns with the biological sex of an individual or it falls closely within traditional norms of the pronouns "he" or "she". For individuals who do not identify themselves with these "strict" pronouns, it becomes uncomfortable.

What are some examples of gender-neutral pronouns?

Answer: "They" and "ze" are some of the more common forms of gender-neutral pronouns.

How does one use the pronouns?

Answer: https://apps.carleton.edu/student/orgs/saga/pronouns/

Where and when can I get access to STI testing?

The Center does STI testing in Thatcher Hall room 106 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday – Thursday. 

Does The Center supply free tampons, pads, pregnancy tests, condoms and personal lubricant? 

Yes, The Center supplies these items for free.  

Are students able to study, read or hang out in The Center?

Yes, students can work on homework, socialize and access books from the Rare Herland Sisters library in The Center. 

Am I allowed to look inside The Center’s community closet and take clothes from it?

Yes, all students are allowed to take any clothes wanted or needed from the community closet and are encouraged to donate any good condition clothing they no longer wear.