A well-known influencer on TikTok, Link Lauren, who is a part of the LGBTQ community, has recently spoken out about his worries regarding the use of “neopronouns.” These neopronouns are gender-neutral or nonbinary terms that replace traditional pronouns like “he/him” or “she/her.” Lauren argues that this trend of adopting neopronouns, which includes unconventional options like “leaf,” could potentially harm the LGBTQ community, as it seems to be primarily embraced by a small, fringe group.

Lauren’s views are shared by several individuals within the LGBTQ community, with some of them expressing that neopronouns can sometimes feel like speaking a “foreign language” and may not accurately represent the broader population. Lauren points out that according to a report by the Trevor Project, only a small percentage of LGBTQ youth in the United States actually use neopronouns.

While recognizing that some individuals may identify with neopronouns or nonbinary terms, Lauren believes that it should not be mandatory for everyone to adopt these terms. He worries that the emphasis on neopronouns might create a perception that all members of the LGBTQ community support or use them, potentially damaging the community’s overall image and acceptance.

The influencer also emphasizes the importance of prioritizing essential education, such as strengthening math and reading skills among students, rather than introducing complex neopronouns. Lauren believes that these trends often originate from college campuses and are promoted by a small group of individuals seeking to establish new or alternative identities separate from the mainstream.

Lauren’s critique of neopronouns and his call for a focus on fundamental education align with the broader ongoing debate surrounding how to balance respecting individuals’ identities while ensuring effective communication and education within society.