# Re: \[PATCH 1/2\] doc: avoid using the gender of other people

- From: Felipe Contreras \<hidden\>
- Date: 2021-06-15 16:31:05 
- List: git
- Page: https://ratatoskr.run/git/2021/06/7892258
- Thread: https://ratatoskr.run/git/2021/06/7891730/t.md

```text
Derrick Stolee wrote:
> On 6/11/2021 4:28 PM, Felipe Contreras wrote:
> > Some people have a problem with using a female reviewer or a female
> > developer as an example, and since this is an irrelevant detail, let's
> > say goodbye to our illustrative female colleagues.
> 
> I find this message to be snarky and underhanded instead of
> actually describing the goals at hand.

But it is accurate.

I have no problem when I read a text that uses a female reviwer as an
illustration. Apparently you do, and presumably others.

> Citing the reason as stated is _not_ the purpose of these
> gender-neutral recommendations.

I believe the purpose is to tailor the wording to you.

> Instead, a message such as this could apply:
> 
>   Using gendered pronouns for an anonymous person applies a
>   gender where none is known, and further excludes readers
>   who do not use gendered pronouns.

It doesn't exclude the readers who do not use genedered pronouns.

Anna--a Finnish reader--may not use gendered pronouns herself, that
doesn't mean she automatically would have a problem when reading "she"
or "he", nor that she would feel excluded.


This patch is not for Anna--who has no problem reading an illustration
in English which uses a female colleague as illustration--this patch is
for you.

Cheers.

-- 
Felipe Contreras
```