There is an interesting controversy brewing at the University of Florida after Professor Autumn McLellan offered academic credit for those who list their pronouns in class. The University has pushed back that “pronoun policing” is not a valid basis for academic credit.
The controversy arose after conservative groupsand sites reported on the offer.
Professor McLellan sent out a notice to class that:
“Guessing or assuming a person’s pronouns can lead to uncomfortable and unwelcoming environments. Displaying your pronouns helps others know how to address you respectfully, even if you feel like your pronouns should be ‘obvious’ to other people.”
McLellan teaches sociology and criminology with stated interests “Collective Action/Social Movements” and “Stratification/Inequality.”
Many faculty and students object to requirements or pressure to use alternative pronouns on political, religious, or biological grounds.
The University itself was quick to push back.