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Hong Kong pushes new non-binary pronoun symbol into Unicode for Chinese language
The new gender-neutral pronoun X_ in Unicode offers non-binary Chinese speakers linguistic recognition amid a traditionally binary system, with adoption expected to take months or years.
- Unicode confirmed the addition of X_, a gender-neutral Chinese pronoun, after a September announcement formalizing its inclusion in the global text standard.
- Historically, the Chinese pronoun system featured binary male and female forms, with the female form emerging in early 20th century linguistic shifts, while Siufung Law urged a neutral option.
- Specific practice shows prior pronoun symbols included male and female forms, while many users rely on the English-letter workaround 'TA' as tech platforms and font creators adapt.
- Acceptance of X_ could carry symbolic power in conservative cultural contexts such as mainland China and Hong Kong and activists say it offers recognition for non-binary people in Chinese-speaking communities.
- Platform and font updates mean widespread adoption of the X_ pronoun will take months or years, with uptake varying as mainland China intensifies crackdowns while Taiwan leads on LGBTQ+ rights.
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Every time non-binary high-profile activist Siufung Law gave interviews to the media, journalists always asked: what pronoun would they like to use?
New Gender-Neutral Chinese Pronoun to Debut Soon
In a significant advancement for gender inclusivity in language, a new gender-neutral Chinese pronoun is set to debut. This development follows the recent inclusion of the character X也 in Unicode, which is a global standard for text representation. The decision, announced in September, heralds a potential shift in how individuals identify themselves within the Chinese …
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Total News Sources14
Leaning Left1Leaning Right0Center9Last UpdatedBias Distribution90% Center
Bias Distribution
- 90% of the sources are Center
90% Center
C 90%
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