Princeton University's Human Resources Department has set new guidelines on what it calls "gender inclusive language" by banning the use of the word "man" in communications, policies, job descriptions, and job postings.
"Use gender-neutral occupational titles and gender-neutral generic terms instead of the generic term 'man,' generic words, and expressions that contain the word 'man' and the use of 'man' as an adjective or verb, " the guidelines read.
The department is prohibiting the use of gender-based words like anchorman, fireman and foreman.
Instead of "average man," the department told staff to use "average person" or "ordinary person." For "man" (referring to humanity), it said to use "human beings," "humanity," "humans," "individuals" or "people."
"Man and wife" should be "spouses" or "partners" and "mankind" should be "humankind."
"Consistent with style guidelines issued by Princeton's Office of Human Resources and Office of Communications, and as endorsed by the Institutional Equity Planning Group as a preferred University practice, HR has developed these gender-inclusive style guidelines, to be utilised by all HR staff members in HR communications, policies, job descriptions, and job postings," according to HR department.
John Cramer, Princeton's director of media relations, told The College Fix that the guidelines "reflect the university's initiative of fostering an inclusive environment."
Pronouns like "he," "him," "his," and "she" need to be replaced "by rewriting the text in the plural."
The department said pronouns should be eliminated altogether while a noun should be repeated to avoid using a pronoun. It also advised to use the second person voice.
Princeton's LGBT Center also has guide on gender pronouns.
For those who are "trans, genderqueer, and gender non-conforming people," the word "they" can be substituted with "ey" or "ze," and instead of using "them," "em" or "hir" can be used.
The report said the policies on gender language have concerned free speech advocates.
