The concept of only two genders is known as the gender binary.
Gender, in fact, is not so black and white.
Gender can be better understood as a spectrum.
llustration by Theresa Chiechi for Verywell Health
It is not set in stone, and a persons understanding of their gender may grow.
For example, if someone identifies as a man right now, they may identify differently in a year.
They may identify as genderqueer, genderfluid, or nonbinary.
Its important to note that not all genderqueer people identify as transgender, even though some of them do.
The word queer encompasses all sexual orientations other than heterosexuality (being attracted to only a different gender).
Their gender does not fit neatly into binary categories.
Some genderqueer people may also identify as genderfluid, which means their gender could shift and change over time.
Sometimes, they may prefer to look androgynous (partly male and partly female in appearance).
Zines, activist flyers, and newspapers started using the word genderqueer.
Relevant Terminology
Pronouns
Genderqueer people can use any pronouns.
Some may only use she/her or he/him, and some may use these in addition to other pronouns.
Some genderqueer people prefer they/them or neo-pronouns like xe/xem, fae/faers, and zie/hir, but some do not.
Some people dont like to use pronouns at all and prefer that you only use their name.
When someone is referred to with the wrong pronoun, it can make them feel disrespected and invalidated.
You should never make assumptions about someones pronouns based on their appearance.
If you are unsure about what pronouns to use, its OK to ask.
Its better to ask than to misuse someones pronouns.
Alternatively, you could introduce yourself with your name and the pronouns you prefer.
This can help create a culture where asking people about their pronouns is a natural part of introductions.
Every preference, expression, and identity varies from person to person.
Some genderqueer individuals may have surgery or take hormones to change their appearance, while others may not.
Some adopt androgynous names and change their pronouns.
It all depends on how the individual understands and expresses their gender.
Genderfluid
Beinggenderfluidmeans not having a fixed, single gender.
Different pronouns may be used depending on how the person views their gender at a particular moment in time.
Some people use nonbinary and genderqueer interchangeably.
Nonbinary and genderqueer are umbrella terms that also can be used as specific identities.
Both terms describe the same group of people: People who do not identify as solely women or men.
Ultimately, its up to the individual to decide which term fits their identity.
Connecting with others who also identify as genderqueer can serve as another source of support.
For those interested in supporting genderqueer people, work on learning about the appropriate language and vocabulary.
Affirm the identity of genderqueer individuals by using the correct pronouns and names, and dont ask invasive questions.
Creating a safe space for genderqueer people can help us all become better allies.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, dial988to contact the988 Suicide & Crisis Lifelineand connect with a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call911.
National Center for Transgender Equality.The report of the 2015 U.S. transgender survey.
GLAAD.Accelerating acceptance 2017.
them.In queery: the history of the word “genderqueer” as we know it.
Genderqueer and Non-Binary Identities.Genderqueer & non-binary identities & terminology.
American Civil Liberties Union.Know your rights: LGBTQ rights.
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