A university in South Africa will no longer use titles like Mr‚ Ms or Mrs. The Witwatersrand Uni. will stop using these titles when communicating with students. It wants to support people who are transgender. A statement read: "The university realizes that it is invalidating and distressing for a person who‚ for example‚ was...female at birth but identifies as male to be constantly addressed by a non-affirming title." People who are transgender are choosing the gender-neutral title "Mx". This is legally recognized in many countries across the world.
The decision is popular in the university community. The university said it, "opposes all public and private discrimination on the basis of gender identity". An official said: "We want people in our university community to feel safe‚ supported and ultimately respected...It means a lot being in a space which is welcoming." A law professor said the action was, "the most wonderful moment for true equality". She added: "It's a triumph for an understanding of the diversity of gender identity‚ sexual orientation and the right to be respected for whomever you are."