London's Tubes Now Feature a Gender Neutral Announcement Preface
Ellen Smith — July 14, 2017 — Lifestyle
References: tfl.gov.uk & mashable
London's iconic underground system has ditched its traditional "Ladies and gentleman" announcement preface for a more gender inclusive subway greeting.
In attempt to welcome a wider demographic of commuters, all pre-recorded announcements have been changed to inclusive acknowledgements like "Good morning everyone," eliminating the alienation of transgender, non-binary and gender-nonconforming travelers. In the wake of Pride, this simple gender-inclusive act serves as a prominent example of progressive city-wide changes that can lead to a safer and more welcoming environment. LGBTQ+ groups throughout the city have been advocating for the changing of the Tube announcements, as well as the gender training of all Tube staff.
The new inclusive subway greeting system is reflective of the celebration of London's diversity as well as the Tube's commitment to customer satisfaction and transport network improvement.
In attempt to welcome a wider demographic of commuters, all pre-recorded announcements have been changed to inclusive acknowledgements like "Good morning everyone," eliminating the alienation of transgender, non-binary and gender-nonconforming travelers. In the wake of Pride, this simple gender-inclusive act serves as a prominent example of progressive city-wide changes that can lead to a safer and more welcoming environment. LGBTQ+ groups throughout the city have been advocating for the changing of the Tube announcements, as well as the gender training of all Tube staff.
The new inclusive subway greeting system is reflective of the celebration of London's diversity as well as the Tube's commitment to customer satisfaction and transport network improvement.
Trend Themes
1. Gender Inclusive Language - Opportunity for companies to adopt gender-neutral language in their communication and marketing strategies to cater to a wider demographic of customers.
2. Diversity and Inclusion - Potential for businesses to prioritize and actively promote diversity and inclusion initiatives, such as gender training for staff, to create a safer and more welcoming environment for all customers and employees.
3. Progressive City-wide Changes - Increasing popularity of cities making progressive changes, such as adopting gender-neutral language, as a way to reflect and celebrate their diverse communities, creating opportunities for businesses in those cities to become leaders in inclusive practices.
Industry Implications
1. Public Transportation - Opportunity for public transportation providers to adopt gender-inclusive language policies and resources, and improve diversity and inclusion efforts, to increase customer satisfaction and differentiate themselves from competitors.
2. Marketing and Communications - Opportunity for companies to adopt gender-neutral language in their communication and marketing strategies to cater to a wider demographic of customers, differentiate themselves from competitors and portray themselves as socially conscious brands.
3. Hospitality - Opportunity for hospitality industry businesses to prioritize and actively promote diversity and inclusion initiatives, such as gender training for staff, to create a safer and more welcoming environment for all guests and employees.
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