Glossary

Womxn

Womxn is an alternative spelling of the word “women” that emerged in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It is a term used by some feminists and social justice advocates as a way to remove the “men” from the spelling, thereby distancing the term from its patriarchal origins. The “x” is intended to be a symbol of protest against male-centric language and to create a more inclusive and gender-neutral term that is entirely separate from the word “man.”

The term is also used by some to be more inclusive of transgender women and women of color. However, its usage is debated and not universally accepted. Critics argue that the word “woman” already encompasses all who identify as such and that the alternative spelling is unnecessary and can be seen as “othering” or alienating. Despite these debates, the term continues to be used in certain academic, activist, and online communities to specifically signal a radical and inclusive stance on gender identity.

• Cal Poly Pomona Career Center

• Write Inclusion

• UC Irvine Womxn’s Hub

Xe (xe, xem, xyr, xyrs, xemself)

Xe/Xem are a set of gender-neutral pronouns used to refer to people who do not identify with the traditional gender binary of man or woman. They are part of a larger category known as neopronouns, which are new pronouns created to be more inclusive of a wide range of gender identities. The terms are used in the same way as common pronouns: “Xe” is the subject pronoun (like “he” or “she”), “xem” is the object pronoun (like “him” or “her”), and “xyr” is the possessive pronoun (like “his” or “her”).

These pronouns are most often used by nonbinary or genderqueer individuals who feel that standard pronouns like “they/them” do not fit their identity. For them, using “xe/xem” can be a specific way to express a unique and personal gender identity that exists outside of binary categories. Using a person’s correct pronouns, including neopronouns, is a fundamental way to show respect for their identity and is a core part of being an ally to the transgender and nonbinary communities.

• LGBT Library

• them.

• Queerty

Xenophobia

Xenophobia is the fear or hatred of that which is perceived to be foreign or strange. It is an intense, irrational, and often unreasoned dislike of people from other countries, cultures, or groups. This fear is typically rooted in the belief that “outsiders” pose a threat to the native or dominant group’s cultural identity, economic stability, or national security.

The effects of xenophobia can be seen at both an individual and a societal level. On a personal level, it can lead to prejudice, discrimination, and hostility towards immigrants or minorities. Institutionally, it can influence public policy, resulting in restrictive immigration laws, social exclusion, and hate crimes. Xenophobia is often amplified during times of economic recession or political turmoil, as politicians and media figures may scapegoat foreign groups for domestic problems.

• Simply Psychology

• UMB Community Psychology

• Verywell Mind