A BLUE AND PINK WORLD

The very idea of gender is being challenged by the day. As more unconventional gender behaviours gain momentum, many more people begin to be accepted. But with this growing acceptance, there is inevitably a corresponding backlash. New discussions beg the question – are sex categories needed any more? Do humans naturally belong to either binary, female or male? Would it just be easier to get rid of the binary altogether? Tag spoke to Rowan, the voice behind @_im_neither_ to get their views as a non-binary person.

Why is respecting pronouns important?

“When you meet somebody, you ask their name. Along with that information, it is a great idea to ask them about their pronouns. Asking about pronouns helps others feel listened to and lets you understand someone’s gender identity.

“Respecting someone’s pronouns is really important. There’s no doubt about it. This goes for everybody, regardless of sex, gender or views. When you ignore or disregard someone’s pronouns, you could make them feel worthless, isolated or unseen. The correct pronoun usage can help ease gender dysphoria and discrimination, and in the long run, help prevent the risk of mental health issues and suicidal thoughts. Trans youths have a suicide rate of 41%. Imagine how much better you might help someone feel just by asking for pronouns.

What do you say to those who believe that there are only two genders?

“The best way to deal with this question is to define what sex is. The sex of a person is their anatomy/hormones/ genes. Gender is more about someone’s identity. Even if someone says that there are two sexes, they would be wrong.

“According to scientists, there are several sex variations, and

Gender equality is a fashionable term, but why does it matter?

those who have these changes are intersex. Although intersex is totally natural, the west has demonised it. There definitely aren’t only two genders, nor two sexes. In fact, only since the 19th century did the binary beome so solidified.

“My pronouns are attack and helicopter.”

“Your pronouns are attack/ helicopter? Okay, let me practice: ‘attack walked home with me today. I’m good friends with helicopter.’ Oh sorry, those aren’t actually your pronouns? You were just trying to make a joke out of a minority that you know nothing about? I see…”. In all seriousness, don’t mock people who are just trying to get on with their lives. People’s insecurities are nothing to do with trans and nonbinary people and everything to do with themselves.

Should binary terms be abolished either fully or partially?

“I believe, and so do a lot of progressives and/or gender diverse individuals, that the gender binary should be abolished/deconstructed.

“Let me explain. The gender binary is the expectations placed upon somebody based on their genitals and the gender at birth (boy or girl). All of us are affected by the gender binary. Men and boys suffer mental illness and suicide as a leading cause of death, often due to the toxic-masculine idea that men must ‘act like men’.

“Women and girls are severely impacted by misogynistic and patriarchal discrimination. Rape culture, domestic violence, access to education, pay gap etc., have been excused as a normal part of womanhood. “Gender non-conforming people are targeted and abused in these binary expectations. Scapegoating, persecution and outing are harmful to everyone who is gender diverse. This system is damaging. We should aim to deconstruct it for the better. “ Binary language, however, isn’t necessarily harmful on its own. Many people find that masculine and feminine allow them to embrace a part of their identity really well. That’s great! But the issue arises when people are forced to express certain expectations based on their genitals. What’s between your legs isn’t the be-all and end-all.

“It’s as simple as respect.”

Final Thoughts

“If this is all confusing to you, that’s okay. It’s okay to have questions, feel unsure or even disagree (respectfully, of course). However, I challenge you to take these questions and find answers from gender diverse people, academics and researchers in gender studies/ trans healthcare, and your gender-diverse peers. It might help you get into the topic a bit more. I also want anyone questioning their gender identity to know that you don’t have to stay stuck in this gender binary. You’re valid no matter what, and I see you.”

Rachel Lucas Design: Sam Angel Photography: George Walker

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.unglobalcompact.org www.unwomen.org

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