Pamphlets coaching employees on gender pronouns are being spread throughout Goldman Sachs – and some bankers are astounded by the hypocrisy.
Goldman Sachs faces accusations from thousands of woman about rampant sexism at the firm which it has worked intensely to keep quiet.
On June 5th, it will go on trial in the Southern District of New York brought by 1,400 women who allege discrimination when it comes to promotions and pay.
But in an attempt to portray itself as progressive – or woke – the firm has embraced informational pamphlets with guides on gender neutral pronoun usage.
The pamphlet introduces typical pronouns like “she/her/hers/herself” and “he/him/his/himself” but mixes in the gender-neutral “they/them/their/themself” and set of gender neutral pronouns that have gained popularity in recent years: “ze/zir (zem) / zirs (zes) / zirself (zemself).”
For confused employees, the pamphlet provides examples: “Ze went to the store. I spoke with zir / zem. The apple was zirs / zes.”
“Proactively share your pronouns to foster a sense of respect and awareness (e.g., “Hi, I’m Karen! My pronouns are she/hers. Welcome to the team!”),” the pamphlet guides employees.
“Replace gendered language with gender-inclusive language wherever possible in every day conversation (e.g., “Hi All,” v. “Hi guys.”).
The pamphlet also encourages employees to “practice using gender-neutral pronouns on your own time. Feeling comfortable with these terms does not happen immediately and can require concerted effort.”
Although the pamphlets have been circulated since 2019, they’ve drawn renewed scrutiny in light of currently political events.
“I think Goldman has a lot of other problems to worry about besides pronouns,” one source who spoke on the condition of anonymity told The New York Post. “Perhaps start by getting rid of … those who harass women and then maybe the women here will take their diversity and inclusivity issues seriously.”
A Goldman Sachs rep lauded the company’s inclusiveness and also refuted its reportedly bad rapport with women.
“Goldman Sachs has a long and strong record of promoting and advancing women at all levels of the bank,” a rep said.
