These days, using someone’s chosen name and pronouns is widely regarded as a meaningful way to show respect and validate their identity, regardless of whether they are straight, gay, or transgender.

However, not everyone follows this practice, often holding onto outdated beliefs or disregarding others’ gender identities entirely.

Bennett Kaspar-Williams, 37, welcomed their son, Hudson, via cesarean section in October 2020, supported by their husband, Malik. At the time, Kaspar-Williams identified as male and used he/him pronouns, though they now identify as non-binary and use both he/him and they/them pronouns. Despite specifying their gender on medical forms, they faced repeated misgendering by hospital staff, who referred to them as a mother rather than a father, according to the Daily Mail.

Kaspar-Williams began transitioning in 2014 after realizing they were transgender in 2011. Although they underwent top surgery, they chose not to pursue procedures on their lower body. Pregnancy and childbirth proved to be both rewarding and challenging, with the consistent misgendering by medical staff dampening the experience.