International Non-Binary Day falls on 14th July, so what better time to explore the topic of gender and address some of the most common misconceptions that surround non-binary people. Because the best way to celebrate this important day is to educate yourself and others, challenge harmful stereotypes, and create a more understanding and inclusive society where everyone is free to be who they want to be. Read on as the gender specialists at the Waterside Clinic bust some binary myths…
- Myth: Non-binary people are all the same
The definition of a non-binary individual is someone who does not identify with the traditional gender binary of male or female. Instead, people who are non-binary express their gender in a variety of ways. Some non-binary people experience their gender as fluid, for example, meaning it can shift and change over time and they can experience being both male and female at different times. Other non-binary people reject the very concept of gender altogether. - Myth: Non-binary people look androgynous
Whilst some non-binary people choose to adopt an androgynous look, others may prefer to dress in a classically “feminine” or “masculine” fashion, shave their hair or grow it long. There are no rules! Being non-binary is not about outward appearances, but about how a person feels on the inside. This is why it is so important to not assume someone’s gender and pronouns. - Myth: Being non-binary means you don’t feel comfortable in your body
This is not necessarily true. Many non-binary people feel perfectly comfortable with their physicality, whilst others may wish to make changes. Every non-binary person is different. - Myth: Non-binary people all use the same pronouns
Language continues to evolve and, as it does, people’s preferences may differ and change. Some may use they / them pronouns, whilst others use zie / zir. Similarly, some may refer to themselves as genderqueer, whilst others prefer the terms agender, bigender or genderfluid. - Myth: Non-binary is the same as intersex or trans
Intersex refers to an individual that has a variety of sex characteristics that fall outside the traditional understanding of male or female. Trans refers to an individual that identifies as a gender other than the one they were assigned at birth. Non-binary people have a variety of gender expressions. - Myth: Non-binary relates to sexual orientation
Sexual orientation generally refers to what gender or genders you are attracted to, whereas gender identity refers to what gender or genders you identify as – they are two completely different things. - Myth: Non-binary is a new phenomenon or trend
This is simply not true. The existence of gender variance has been widely documented across the globe throughout history. - Myth: The term “non-binary” is unnecessary
Providing the terminology for a person to describe who they feel they are on an internal level is so important. It enables people to acknowledge and understand who they truly are. - Myth: There’s no need for International Non-Binary Day
According to the 2018 National LGBT Survey published by the Government Equalities Office, 76% of non-binary people in this UK survey avoided expressing their gender identity due to fear of negative reactions. The purpose of International Non-Binary Day is to break down barriers and enable more people to express their true gender identity so they can lead happy and fulfilling lives.
If you have questions, we’re here to help you find the answers
Waterside Clinic is proud to specialise in supportive transgender and non-binary care. If you would like to find out more about our services, get in touch with our friendly team on 0131 202 5314, or email us on hello@waterside.clinic and we’ll be happy to help you.