By: Leah Pradeep

Edited by: Pruthvi C.S and Namitha A

Non-binary, or genderqueer, is a spectrum of gender identities that are not exclusively masculine or feminine-- identities that are outside the gender binary. This term may not be familiar to many people, as it is rarely spoken about and is one of the lesser-known identities in the LGBTQIA+ community. However, as an identity that many use it must be respected. A few non-binary people you may know are Cara Delevingne (genderfluid), Sam Smith (genderqueer and non-binary), and Miley Cyrus (genderfluid),

Non-binary people usually go by they/them pronouns, and in some cases go by he/they, she/they.

A rare few also go by neo pronouns which are simply a set of gender-neutral pronouns. The common ones are xe/xem, fae/fair. A common issue many non-binary people face is being misgendered, as many people assume gender and do not ask the other person what pronouns they use. Many people also assume gender, based on one's clothing even though clothing has no gender.

Non-binary people face a lot of opposition from those who are unwilling to accept or respect them. Many are told that their identity is either “fake” or “made up”.If and when they decide to come out publicly, they are not welcomed by one and all.

There are a few people who take the time to understand and use they/them or similar pronouns, however, the majority of people give up halfway because it is “too complicated”.

With a lot of hostility from people around them and the lack of awareness and visibility, many non-binary people turn to the internet and find people who think as they do, which helps them feel validated. The only problem with this is that sometimes, people require reassurance from people they know and are close to in real life. Acceptance and validation from those close to us can make a big difference. Unwelcoming family members that are not as open-minded can make people feel excluded, and alone.

Information about gender identities not only helps those people who

identify with them feel validated but can also help people understand gender identities, and can create a more welcoming society where people don’t need to hide.

Embracing people's pronouns make them feel accepted in society. It takes a lot of courage to come out in a not so accepting world, and even little acts of respecting their gender identity and letting them know that they’re valid can make them feel safe and comforted.

Educating people can also help shed light on gender dysphoria and help those that go through it. Gender Dysphoria is the feeling of discomfort or distress that might occur in people whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth or sex-related physical characteristics.