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.)