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November 29, 2005
Hanging Up Those Gender Hangups
Of all the texts purchased for News Writing, I've found the AP Guide to News Writing provided my with the most help in defining journalism "rules."
Genderly speaking, I felt torn within my writing while attributing sources/points for female and male readers. Should I use "he or she"? Or should I use "she or he" to account for social changes? I'm not entirely sure why, but I steered away from using plural forms. In actuality, it a sure and safe method for presenting one's ideas without feeling tied to gender labels. In its own way, our words could indicate biases based upon our decision to third person singular pronouns when (for example...hope I'm using my parenthesis right here) describing job positions.
Journalists must frequently "stay on their toes" because our presentation of information/news is equally important. Granted, we can't over analyze our work. However, it's assuring to know that these compositions are carefully crafted for its audiences. Because, the written word contains the power to help society move backward or forward.
Posted by BethanyHutira at November 29, 2005 03:55 PM