At least regionally, “guys” as in “hey guys” and “you guys!!” and “uh, guys?” – that is, to address a group is indeed gender neutral.
In the Midwest you will absolutely hear spaces comprised solely of women use “guys” to address the group. Only the oldest sticklers/prescriptivists would insist said group be addressed as “ladies”
That said, more than a few trans women I’ve met – even locally – don’t have that lived experience and I can imagine they find it difficult to believe.
The search for less ambiguous language to protect their feeling of acceptance and safety is worthwhile even though “you guys” is a neutral address.
At least regionally, “guys” as in “hey guys” and “you guys!!” and “uh, guys?” – that is, to address a group is indeed gender neutral.
In the Midwest you will absolutely hear spaces comprised solely of women use “guys” to address the group. Only the oldest sticklers/prescriptivists would insist said group be addressed as “ladies”
That said, more than a few trans women I’ve met – even locally – don’t have that lived experience and I can imagine they find it difficult to believe.
The search for less ambiguous language to protect their feeling of acceptance and safety is worthwhile even though “you guys” is a neutral address.