Deadnaming
Updated:Deadnaming refers to the act of referring to a transgender or non-binary person by their birth name or former name, rather than their chosen name that aligns with their gender identity. This practice is considered disrespectful and potentially harmful, as it invalidates the person's identity and can cause emotional distress.
Additional Information
Deadnaming can occur intentionally or unintentionally. When done intentionally, it's often seen as a form of discrimination or harassment. Unintentional deadnaming may happen due to habit or lack of awareness, but it's still important to correct the behavior. Many transgender individuals consider their former name to be deeply personal and private information.
The impact of deadnaming can be significant, potentially triggering gender dysphoria, anxiety, and feelings of rejection. It's crucial for allies and society at large to respect a person's chosen name and pronouns as part of supporting their gender identity and overall well-being.
Examples
A coworker consistently using a transgender colleague's birth name instead of their chosen name in meetings
A family member introducing their transgender sibling using their old name at a gathering, causing discomfort and distress