A university South Africa has decided to no longer use titles such as Mr‚ Ms or Mrs. The University the Witwatersrand said it will stop using these titles any form communication students. It took this decision to support people who were transgender or gender non-conforming. A statement officials read: "The university realizes that it is invalidating and distressing a person who‚ for example‚ was...female birth but identifies as male to be constantly addressed a non-affirming title." It added that people who were transgender or non-binary are choosing the gender-neutral title "Mx," which is legally recognized many countries across the world.
The decision has been widely welcomed the university community. The university said it, "opposes all public and private discrimination the basis of gender identity and gender expression". A university official said: "We want people our university community to feel safe‚ supported and ultimately respected. As a transgender person myself‚ it means a lot being a space which is welcoming." A law professor said the action was, "the most wonderful moment true equality a multitude of spectrums". She added: "It's a triumph an understanding the diversity of gender identity‚ sexual orientation and the right to be respected whomever you are."
