Montgomery County Council held a significant session to commemorate International Pronouns Day, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and respect for individual identities. Council Vice President Kate Stewart opened the meeting, highlighting the necessity of recognizing and using correct pronouns as a fundamental aspect of human dignity.

The event featured various community leaders, including representatives from local LGBTQIA+ organizations, who shared personal insights and experiences. Notably, Will Green, senior pastor at Silver Spring United Methodist Church, discussed his congregation's commitment to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community through initiatives like affordable housing.

Stewart noted that this marks the second consecutive year the council has recognized International Pronouns Day, a response to community feedback gathered from an LGBTQ+ survey. The survey indicated that visibility and the use of correct pronouns were top priorities for community members. Stewart expressed concern over rising anti-trans sentiments in national policies, underscoring the need for local action to combat hate and foster understanding.

Council Member Mink echoed these sentiments, addressing the challenges some allies face in using singular \"they\" pronouns and encouraging practice and correction without making a spectacle of mistakes. Lee Blinder, executive director of Trans Maryland, shared their journey as a non-binary individual and emphasized the collective responsibility to respect and affirm each other's identities.

MP, a director at Trans Maryland, presented findings from the 2023 Maryland Trans Survey, revealing a diverse range of gender identities and pronouns within the county. However, they also highlighted ongoing challenges, such as the lack of trans health providers and the need for more inclusive public facilities.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for the community to embrace inclusivity, affirming that everyone deserves to thrive in a supportive environment. The council's recognition of International Pronouns Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to create a welcoming space for all individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities.