Academics at the Australian National University have been advised to stop using the words “mother” and “father” and use “gestational parent” and “non-birthing parent” instead.
According to a handbook given to staff and quoted from by The Daily Telegraph:
“When discussing childbirth, use the terms ‘gestational’ or ‘birthing’ parent rather than ‘mother’, and the terms ‘non-gestational’ or ‘non-birthing’ parent rather than ‘father’,” the book says.
“While many students will identify as ‘mothers’ or ‘fathers’, using these terms alone to describe parenthood excludes those who do not identify with gender-binaries.
“This non-gendered language is particularly important in clinical or abstract academic discussions of childbirth and parenthood, both to recognise the identities of students in the class, and to model inclusive behaviour for students entering clinical practice.”
Tutors and lecturers have also been recommended to use “chestfeeding’’ instead of breastfeeding and “human or parent’s milk’’ instead of “mother’s milk’’.
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