[tiglionabbit]

It's not really regional. I have noticed this most from folks who are transitioning genders. Some are OK with "they", but some prefer folks to go above and beyond to affirm their new gender, thus objecting to "dude" and "guys".

As a result, I've gotten into the habit of saying "y'all" and "folks" even though I'd otherwise never have used these words.

[seanmcdirmid]

It is regional outside of the USA, quickly gaining gender neutrality in the UK, Australia, India, .... y’all or folks won’t cut it in those places.

[swish_bob]

Folk is fine in the UK and works well, as does "everybody".

[disgruntledphd2]

I use gentlefolk, to avoid this issue (also it's kinda of a cool word, that people tend not to use very much).