As a sommelier and brewer, I believe it is important to address the question of whether “ladies” is a proper salutation. In my personal experience and observations, I have come to realize that the use of “ladies” as a salutation can be exclusionary and carry a weight of toxic femininity.
The traditional use of “ladies” as a salutation may seem harmless on the surface, but it implies a gender-specific greeting that excludes those who do not identify as female. It reinforces binary gender norms and fails to acknowledge the diverse identities and experiences of individuals.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for more inclusive language. Transport for London, for example, recently made the decision to ditch gender-specific greetings in their announcements and instead use gender-neutral salutations. This is a step towards creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
Even former President Barack Obama recognized the importance of inclusive language in his speeches. He often used the term “folks” instead of gender-specific greetings, acknowledging the diverse group of people he was addressing without excluding anyone.
Furthermore, the use of “lady” or “ladies” on its own can carry a weight of toxic femininity. It can evoke traditional gender roles and expectations, reinforcing societal pressures on women to conform to certain standards. This can be especially detrimental in professional settings where women may already face challenges and biases.
To create a more inclusive and respectful environment, it is crucial to use gender-neutral salutations that do not assume or reinforce gender stereotypes. Instead of defaulting to “ladies,” we can use more inclusive terms such as “everyone,” “folks,” or even specific group names if appropriate. By doing so, we can ensure that our language is inclusive and considers the diverse identities and experiences of all individuals.
The use of “ladies” as a salutation is not a proper one in today's society. It is exclusionary and reinforces gender norms that do not align with the diverse identities and experiences of individuals. It is important to adopt gender-neutral salutations that promote inclusivity and respect for all.