How to explain gender diversity to people who don’t get it
Explaining non-binary and gender diversity to people who may be older or unfamiliar with these concepts can require patience, empathy, and clear communication. Here’s a way to explain these concepts in a simple and understanding manner:
1. Start with the Basics:
Begin by explaining that when it comes to gender, many people were taught that there are only two categories: male and female. However, it’s important to note that gender is not strictly binary; it’s more diverse than that.
2. Define Non-Binary:
Define non-binary as a term used by some people to describe their gender identity. Non-binary individuals don’t exclusively identify as male or female. They may see themselves as a mix of both genders, neither gender, or something entirely different.
3. Use Analogies:
Analogies can be helpful. You might compare gender to something familiar, like the colours on a spectrum. Explain that just as there are many shades between red and blue, there are many different gender identities beyond just male and female.
4. Respect and Pronouns:
Emphasise the importance of using the correct pronouns for individuals. Mention that some non-binary people use gender-neutral pronouns like “they/them” instead of “he” or “she.” Encourage the use of these pronouns as a way to show respect and support. Pronouns are not preferred’ though, they are just pronouns.
5. Share Personal Stories:
Sharing stories of non-binary individuals can make the concept more relatable. Personal experiences and struggles can help others understand and empathise with the challenges non-binary individuals may face.
6. Highlight Legal and Societal Changes:
Explain that society is becoming more inclusive and accepting of different gender identities. Laws and policies in some places now recognize non-binary gender markers on identification documents, such as driver’s licences, which reflects a growing acceptance of gender diversity.
7. Encourage Questions:
Let the person know it’s okay to ask questions if they’re curious or don’t fully understand. Encourage open and respectful dialogue.
8. Patience and Empathy:
Understand that it may take time for some individuals to fully grasp these concepts. Be patient and empathetic in your discussions, and be willing to revisit the topic as needed.
9. Emphasise Respect and Inclusion:
Remind them that even if they don’t fully understand, it’s important to respect people’s gender identities and use the names and pronouns they prefer. Inclusion and acceptance are key.
10. Recommend Further Learning:
Suggest resources like books, articles, or documentaries that delve deeper into gender diversity and non-binary experiences. These resources can provide more context and insight.
Ultimately, the goal is to foster understanding and empathy, creating a more inclusive and accepting environment for people of all gender identities. Remember that changing deeply ingrained beliefs and attitudes may take time, so approach the conversation with patience and a willingness to continue educating and advocating for gender diversity.
What to do if someone still can’t (or won’t) get it?
Everyone deserves to feel safe, secure and welcome at work. There’s a difference between an honest mistake, and a malicious attempt to misgender someone and therefore create an unsafe or discriminatory work environment. Someone who deliberately or maliciously misgenders someone or uses the wrong pronouns when specifically told otherwise is potentially acting in a discriminatory manner, or at the very least not making others feel included on the team.
What is non-binary?
Non-binary is a term used to describe someone whose gender identity doesn’t fit into traditional definitions of feminity or masculinity. It can also refer to people whose gender sits somewhere between masculine and feminine, or fluctuates.
Other terms which don’t mean exactly the same thing, but that you might come across include genderqueer, genderfluid, agender and bigender. These all describe the spectrum of genders which go beyond the masculine / feminine “binary.”
Non-binary is not the same thing as transgender or trans. Non-binary people are not necessarily “moving” between one sex and gender or the other. Nob-binary people do not need surgery or special permission to become non-binary. Like coming out as gay or lesbian, coming out as non-binary means publicly expressing an important part of your internal identity.
Many countries are beginning to recognise non-binary in national laws. Australia allows non-binary people to choose X instead of M or F in their birth certificates and passports, as does Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Iceland, New Zealand, and several US states. India, along with Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan have long recognised a third sex in law, partly because of the Hijra people who are officially neither male nor female. The ancient Sanskrit language has three gender options to include this group.
The United Kingdom extended anti-discrimination protections to non-binary and gender fluid people, who are protected from discrimination under the Equality Act. A genderfluid engineer was recently awarded £180,000 in compensation after suffering abuse and harassment at work.
Skill Boosters’ Intersectionality course
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- Explains what is meant by the term ‘intersectionality’
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- Explains what we mean by ‘privilege’ and why it is intersectional
- Teaches learners to appreciate that there may be many different ‘voices’ within a marginalised or minority community
- Sets out the key benefits for organisations and employers of taking an intersectional approach
- Teaches users how to incorporate intersectionality into specific workplace practices and attitudes
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