In the evolving discourse on gender diversity, the distinction between social recognition and acceptance of transgender and non-binary (TGNB) individuals remains inadequately explored, despite its critical importance for both theoretical understanding and practical application. This paper introduces the Gender Acknowledgement Theory (GAT), a novel theoretical framework designed to bridge the existing gap in understanding gender diversity by advocating for a combined approach that intergrates both biological and psychological aspects to acknowledge gender. Through a comprehensive analysis of societal attitudes towards TGNB individuals in both the United States and China, this study reveals a significant polarization in the U.S. and a neutral to slightly negative perspective in China regarding social recognition and acceptance. However, the introduction of GAT and the "Ta" pronoun demonstrates a potential for improving social recognition and acceptance across diverse cultural contexts. The empirical investigation highlights the broader applicability of GAT, suggesting its role in enhancing understanding, communication, and societal integration of TGNB individuals. The findings contribute to the ongoing debate on gender identity, offering insights into the complexities of gender diversity and proposing a path forward for achieving greater inclusivity and understanding in society.KeywordsGender Diversity, Transgender, Non-Binary, Social Recognition, Social Acceptance, Gender Acknowledgement Theory (GAT), "Ta" Pronoun, Societal Attitudes, Cultural Contexts, Inclusivity