January 1, 2024 is the effective date for the MCR 1.109(D)(1)(b) amendments that allow parties and attorneys to include the pronouns in court filings. The public debate seemed heated (and sometimes cruel). But, in the end, the Court took another forward step toward greater inclusion.

This is an important and positive start. Hopefully, future steps will be taken to give and recognize the same courtesy to court witnesses, jurors, employees, and other stakeholders.

Last November, South Australia’s Supreme Court Chief Justice signed a two-page official “Practice Note” about the Pronunciation of Names and Gender Pronouns. U.S. court leaders may find it helpful in advancing this important work.