To whom it may concern:

          Of course, one is correct when stating that the male pronoun
          has been traditionally used in English when the gender is
          unknown.  It is also true, however, that not all traditions
          are good or unchanging.  Slavery, for example, was an
          institutionalized tradition.  One might even argue that it
          was a more inherent part of our society than the Modern
          Language Association. The English language, more
          specifically, is always changing.  Please note that we speak
          neither the English of England nor even the English of the
          colonial United States.  Simply, language evolves.

          While adapting to gender neutral language may be awkward or
          even difficult at times, it may also be worth it.  Change is
          scary, especially when one feels attacked.  Weighing the
          advantages of gender inclusivity versus the disadvantages of
          awkwardness, however, inclusivity wins out in my mind.  It
          was difficult for me, and I often fail, but I have found
          ways to be more inclusive of the female gender, my own.

          Kellyx Nelson
          (These opinions are mine, of course.)