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Deadname
(noun, verb)
A deadname refers to an individual’s name from a prior time in their life. Deadnaming occurs when someone, whether intentionally or unintentionally, refers to a transgender and/or nonbinary person with their deadname (Source).
Examples: Jamie has been using this name for the past two months and finds it fits with her self-image; when someone intentionally uses her deadname that she was assigned at birth, it makes her feel like they do not respect who she is.
Why it’s important to know this: Using a student’s deadname, no matter whether intentionally or not, is a microaggression that can cause harm to the student and weaken trust (Source). If it happens, it is important to correct yourself, apologize, and try to do better.
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