Deadnaming (using someone’s birth name) refers to calling a Trans or Non-binary person by the name they used prior to their transition rather than their chosen name.
Deadnaming can be unintentional, but it can also be used in a deliberate attempt to deny or invalidate someone’s identity. Deadnaming can cause a Trans or Non-binary person to feel unseen, ashamed or hurt. It can also put a person at risk of danger by outing their Trans identity to other people.
Using the correct name (chosen name) for a Trans person will help to show that you respect them, will help them feel safe and comfortable to be themselves around you.
As an ally to the Trans Community, it is important to try and understand how deadnaming will affect a person, to encourage sharing knowledge around this topic and debunking any myths about deadnaming.