Non-binary teacher goes viral for perfectly – and easily – explaining their pronouns to kids

A non-binary elementary teacher has gone viral for perfectly – and simply – explaining their pronouns to their class. 

A video posted to TikTok by Teacher Robi (@teacherrobi) shows how they introduced themselves as non-binary to their students last year, and the clip has gone viral.

The video is captioned: “This year, I’m recreating it so other non-binary teachers can use it too.” 

“I am non-binary. My pronouns are they/them,” Teacher Robi states at the start of the clip. 

They continue by wishing their students good morning and showing them their teacher picture. 

Robi then explains their pronouns, giving examples of how they are used: “For example: ‘They are a great art teacher. They taught us how to draw Stitch’.” 

“It is so very important to get our pronouns right,” they continue, “If you do make a mistake, I will politely correct you – no worries. That goes for me too: if I ever get your pronouns wrong, please correct me every single time.” 

Robi then goes on to share their education history and a bit about themselves, including the fact they love their family and their fur babies.

“In order to make this a safe space, you all have to believe and trust that you belong here and that you are welcome here,” Robi concludes in the clip.

@teacherrobi Replying to @TheAwakenedDoll Full circle moment ✨ Last year I shared how I introduced myself as non-binary to my students, and it went viral. This year, I’m recreating it so other non-binary teachers can use it too 🏳️‍🌈✏️ #RepresentationMatters #teacherrobi #nonbinaryteacher #nonbinaryvisibility #nonbinaryeducator ♬ original sound – Teacher Robi

In response to some of the negative comments under the clip, one person wrote: “Ya’ll making this a bigger deal than the teacher…this was a very simple and age appropriate (for literally every age) [way] to introduce yourself and specify your pronouns.” 

Another wrote: “I love this. Teacher Robi is so much better than ms or mr!! And a great respectful introduction to your new class.” 

“This is quite literally teaching respect both ways… why are you guys angry,” a different user commented.

Research released by The Trevor Project in 2021 found that one in four LGBTQ+ youth use pronouns other than he/him and she/her. 

The Trevor Project surveyed 40,000 LGBTQ+ young people between the ages of 13-24 in the United States, asking them: “Which pronouns do you currently use? Please select all that apply.”

Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.