US worked and reduced visitor visa wait time for Indians after decrease of 75%

Blinken's directive underscores the Biden administration's commitment to promoting inclusivity

In a recent internal communication, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken provided guidance to State Department workers regarding the use of gendered language. Blinken directed employees to refrain from using terms such as "mother," "father," and "manpower," emphasizing the importance of avoiding "misgendering." This directive coincided with ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, highlighting Blinken's attention to inclusive language amidst global tensions. Blinken's guidance stems from the recognition that gender is a social construct, and an individual's gender identity may not necessarily align with their assigned sex at birth. He encouraged colleagues to adopt gender-neutral language whenever possible to demonstrate respect and prevent misunderstandings. Additionally, Blinken advised employees to disclose their preferred pronouns in both written communication and verbal introductions during meetings.

Commonly used pronouns such as she/her, he/him, they/them, and ze/zir were highlighted as examples, with Blinken emphasizing the importance of respecting individuals' personal pronoun choices. He acknowledged that some individuals may use multiple pronouns or accept all pronouns, emphasizing the need to honor these preferences. This guidance was outlined in a document titled "Modeling DEIA: Gender Identity Best Practices," dated February 5. It comes on the heels of the US launching strikes on Iran-backed militants in Iraq and Syria in response to the killing of three American soldiers. Blinken's directive underscores the Biden administration's commitment to promoting inclusivity and respect within government agencies, even amidst heightened geopolitical tensions.