What is Non-Binary Gender?

Non-binary gender is a spectrum of gender identities that are not exclusively either male or female. People who identify as non-binary could be agender, bigender, genderfluid, genderqueer, intersex, androgynous, and more. They often reject labels and identify as neither male nor female and or both male and female simultaneously.

Gender is different from sexual orientation and is often described as a spectrum. At one end of the spectrum there is often considered a masculine identity, at the other end is usually a feminine identity and in the middle a non-binary identity.

Many non-binary people feel that the language and definitions of gender do not accurately reflect their experiences. Some feel that language needs to be created or adapted to accurately express gender experiences outside the gender binary.

Non-binary Identity

Non-binary identity is about understanding and honoring individual experiences of gender that are neither exclusively male nor exclusively female. People who identify as non-binary may experience a mix of traditional masculine and feminine traits, or they may not identify with any gender at all.

Non-binary people may also feel that traditional gender terms don’t relate to them, or they may use a variety of gender terms such as genderfluid, genderqueer, bigender, gender non-conforming, and more.

Non-binary expression

Non-binary expression is the gender expression of a person who identifies as non-binary. Gender expression is how a person communicates their gender identity to others through their behavior and appearance. Non-binary expression can include clothing choices, hairstyles, pronouns, and behaviors that may be deemed neither wholly masculine nor wholly feminine.

Non-binary expression allows for the freedom to explore and express gender in whatever way aligns with someone’s beliefs and comfort. They might present themselves in a way that blurs or shifts between traditionally masculine and feminine presentation, or they may express themselves in ways not typically associated with gender. Non-binary expression allows for somebody to communicate their gender identity in any way that resonates with them.

The Future of Non-Binary

The future of non-binary is centered around celebrating gender differences, creating more inclusive language and creating a safe space for non-binary people to exist and be recognized. As more communities and countries recognize and advocate for non-binary rights, the true potential of non-binary identity can be reached.

Non-binary identities are an important part of our culture, and they will continue to shape the way we understand and express gender. With continued education and acceptance, gender identity outside the gender binary will be embraced instead of shamed and accepted in society.