Gender identification has been a widely controversial topic over the last decade, not only in sexual preference, but in personal gender preference as well. In some regards, those within the LGBTQ community prefer not to be referred to as “he” or “she,” but rather “they” or, newly, “ze.” Recognizing this movement and preference, schools such as Harvard University and the University of Virginia have added “ze” and “they” on their registration forms.

Considering the equality movement, this change in identification options is a huge step forward. It does, however, add strife and controversy when considering in conservative views within the subject matter. As a conservative or Christian, the availability of different gender options that aren’t the traditional “he” or “she” is both a positive and a negative addition. Perhaps it is mere ignorance or lack of information, but the addition of new pronouns seems unnecessary.

In my eyes, there are two possible genders. Whether a born-female feels as though they are “meant to be a male” or a born-male feels as though they are “a female trapped in the wrong body,” there are still options: male or female.

According to the way society has been transformed, it is perfectly acceptable for one to get gender-reassignment surgery and to be uncomfortable with the body they were born in. We have been put under great amount of judgement concerning the way we think of gender, sexuality and what we accept, individually or collectively. Anyone who does not agree with even one aspect of today’s changes is generally considered a “bigot” and “ignorant.”

I don’t agree 100 percent with being transgender, simply because we are all born in a body that is given specifically to us by God. “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them,” Genesis 1:27.  By changing your sex and saying you are unhappy with the body you were born with, you’re saying God didn’t do it well enough for you, and you are thus destroying His perfect work.

However, as a decent human being, I do believe it is everyone’s choice and no one can tell someone no, “you aren’t allowed to do that to yourself.” Everyone- male, female, Christian, conservative, liberal- should accept everyone for who they are and what they want. Therefore, the addition of “ze,” while controversial, is hugely important in the movement for equality, love and acceptance.

Everyone should be able to be comfortable and happy with how they are addressed- whether “he,” “she,” “they” or “ze.” As a whole, more colleges and other industries should consider adding “ze” to their forms.