A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Gender Queer

If you spend time in spaces where gender and sexuality are discussed, you’ve probably seen or heard the term genderqueer. But, what does it mean? Who are the people who identify as genderqueer, what is the history of the word? Let’s get into it.

Gender Queer – Meaning in English; What is it?

Genderqueer or genderqueer can refer to multiple kinds of gender identity, ranging from fluid and constantly changing to gender identities that exist both between the binary lines of man and woman, as well as outside those binary lines. Genderqueer is also a way to describe a person who is questioning their gender identity in an ongoing way at any period of time.

Being nonbinary is not exactly the same as being genderqueer; however, many nonbinary identities exist within the genderqueer umbrella term. The key difference between being genderqueer and being nonbinary is that the word queer holds significance through its political roots.

For those exploring their identity or looking to connect with others, Queer Dating platforms can provide a supportive space to meet like-minded individuals.

Genderqueer is a term that originated within groups of activists back in the 1990’s. It was used as a way to describe the way people identify as they challenged and pushed the boundaries of the gender identity binary.

Genderqueer is one of the many umbrella terms in the LGBTQIA community and is used to label many different forms of gender expression including genderfluid, two-spirit, bigender, and agender, among many other forms of gender identity.

Understanding Gender Identity and Why it is Important

Gender identity is how a person identifies themselves in terms of gender. This could mean being a man, woman, transgender, cisgender, as well as many other non binary identities. Gender identity is a wide spectrum and people can fall anywhere between the binary as well as even outside of the binary. When it comes to giving support to those in the genderqueer community it is important to understand what gender identity is and how it affects those within that community

The Importance of Gender Expression

Gender expression is how a person chooses to express their gender identity. Gender expression tends to range within the binary of masculine and feminine, however there are also many androgynous methods of expression as well.

Different Forms of Gender Expression

Just like gender identity, gender expression can come in many different forms and can be used to showcase any kind of gender identity, even genderqueer identity. Forms of gender expression include but are not limited to.

• Preference and choice in pronouns such as He/Him, She/Her, and They/Them among many others.
• Preference and choice in clothing, accessories, as well as hair and makeup styles.
• Temporary augmentations to ones physical appearance, such as use of a binder.
• Permanent augmentations to ones physical appearance, such as top surgery.
• Use of hormonal therapy.

These are just a few examples of the many ways a person may choose to showcase their expression of gender identity. Many people who are genderqueer or gender nonconforming often choose to express themselves in ways that challenge the traditional roles and expectations of what are considered to be gender norms.

Gender Identities and Their Diversity

Just as there are many kinds of sexual orientation there are also many different gender identities. Some flowing along the male or female binary, and some that are completely separated from that binary. They are all ways in which a person chooses to identify themselves to the world.

Nonbinary

This identity is an umbrella term for many different gender identities and refers to those who do not identify within the traditional binary of male or female. Those who identify with non binary identities often challenge what we consider to be the traditional gender binary.

Genderfluid

This refers to a type of gender identity in which a persons gender identity is not set in stone. A person who is genderfluid may change their identity a number of times, monthly, weekly, even as much of a daily change. Their identity can also range from male or female, being both, or being completely genderless. This change completely depends on the person and what they feel suits them the best at that point.

Bigender

This type of gender identity refers to those who identify with at least 2 types of gender identity. Although these identities usually follow the traditional gender binary there are also those who are bigender and resonate with more than one gender off of the binary.

Pangender

Much like bigender this gender identity refers to those who identify as more than one gender identity. The difference however is that a pangender person identifies with multiple or all types of gender identities, while a person who is bigender identifies with 2 distinct ones.

Agender

This type of identity refers to those who do not feel a connection to any particular gender identity at all, or may feel as if no gender identity actually suits them. Agender is often referred to as being “genderless”

Gender Nonconforming

Gender nonconforming is a phrase that can apply to anyone both inside and outside of the genderqueer umbrella. Gender nonconforming is a form of gender expression in which a person does not conform or express their gender in the way that is expected by society.

Genderqueer

The term Genderqueer is one of the many umbrella terms used to encompass a wide range of gender identities. People who adopt this term often use it to make a political statement.

Third Gender

Just like the term genderqueer, third gender is considered to be another umbrella term that is used to describe a person whose gender identity falls away from the binary. Third gender can be used to label those who are both male or female, androgynous, agender, gender nonconforming, two spirit, as well as many other forms of gender identities.

AMAB/AFAB

Refers to the biological sex assigned at birth. For example assigned male (or female) at birth.

Intersex

The term intersex is a medical term that describes someone who was born with or without sex characteristics that differ from what is considered to be male or female. This can be caused by a lack of hormones, chromosomal differences, lack of physical characteristics, lack of reproductive organs, and more.

Sometimes, transgender people and intersex individuals are mentioned in the same context. However, the two things are distinct. Intersex refers to a person’s biological traits while transgender is an identity.

Sexual Orientation

This is a term that is used to define a person’s ongoing romantic and sexual attraction. For example, lesbian, gay, or bisexual. Genderqueers can be of any orientation as the word applies to gender rather than sexuality.

Pronouns

Pronouns are a series of phrases that many people use to refer to themselves and others. This includes he/him, she/her, they/them, ze/zir among many others. Pronouns are very important to the recognition of a persons identity, and respecting pronouns helps the fight for genderqueer and transgender equality.

Using the wrong pronouns might not bother some people but for others it could have disastrous affects on a persons mental health. While recent controversies about pronouns focus on the trans community, it’s important to understand that a cis person may also have a preferred pronoun.

Transgender

Transgender refer to those who identify as any gender that they were not assigned at birth. Transgender people come in all forms and can be male or female, third gender, agender, as well as many other gender identities. Which is why many genderqueer people belong under the transgender umbrella.

It is important to understand not just what genderqueer means, but to understand how diverse the spectrum of gender identity, and expression really is. Genderqueer and nonbinary people only make up a small portion of the spectrum, and it is important to understand that there is more than two genders, as well as more than two sexes.

The Gender Neutral Environment; What to do to Create One

Whether you are looking to create a safe space specifically for genderqueer people, or you want to create a space that challenges everyone to think differently about gender and gender expression there are many ways you can create a gender neutral environment for all.

Remove Gendered Language

For many people learning about genderqueer people and how to be respectful one of the first hurdles to overcome is the use of gendered language. Phrases such as “ladies and gentlemen” or “boys and girls” can easily be changed to more gender neutral phrases such as “everyone” “friends” “children” or “folks”.

Make they/them the default pronoun

Although ze/zir is acceptable as well the pronouns they/them are more universally recognized by most genderqueer people as acceptable pronouns to address those who do not identify as male or female. Default to gender neutral pronouns to make everyone feel included. Don’t worry, the singular they has long been accepted in reputable style guides.

Make an effort to ask people what their pronouns are

By asking those who are genderqueer or those who identify with the genders on the binary about their pronouns you show them that you respect their gender identity and want to make the effort to learn and understand them.

Never make the assumption what a persons gender identity is

Whether that person is genderqueer, genderfluid, cisgender, transgender, or identifies with more than 2 genders it is important to never assume a persons gender. By asking about their pronouns as well as what their preferred name is you help to create a supportive environment for everyone, not just those who identify as genderqueer.

Petition for Gender Neutral Spaces

In many places genders are separated between male and female and can be an obstacle and even a hazard for those who transgender, genderqueer, or even those who are cisgender as well. This separation has lead to harassment, discrimination, as well health and safety risks. Gender neutral spaces help keep everyone safe, not just those in a certain group.

How to be Supportive of the Genderqueer Community

There are many ways a person can be supportive of the genderqueer group in the lgbtqia community and none of these ways require you to take on special roles within the nonbinary communities.

Learn About the Identities

Whether a person is non binary, agender, genderfluid, or anything else. It is important to understand what the difference between each gender identity and how even the smallest difference between two nonbinary identities can make in the way someone perceives themselves. Actively seek out this information so you come to the table with an informed perspective.

Use the correct terms and avoid making assumptions

Most nonbinary people know that mistakes can be made and will recognize when a person has made a genuine mistake. However when it becomes a pattern you most likely will not be viewed as a safe person any longer. Always make an effort to use the correct terminology such as the singular they for each nonbinary or genderqueer individual you come across. Also, remember that expressions of gender are a very personal thing. What one person sees as masculine or feminine may not align with your views or experiences.

Resources and Organizations

There are many organizations that help to support those who are genderqueer. Some of them include “The Trevor Project”, “The National Center for Transgender Equality”, “The Gender Affirming Letter Access Project”, “World Professional Association for Transgender Health” as well as many others. By seeking out and supporting these resources you help to create a more supportive community.

Understand and respect the experiences and identities of genderqueer individuals

In order to create a safe, welcoming and supportive community for all genders it is important to understand that everyone’s experiences will be different. Regardless of assigned gender at birth, or sexuality, it is important to understand that everyone’s story will be different and to step away from what you may consider to be the norm.

Am I Genderqueer?

The word gender queer resonates with you, but how do you know if it’s an identity that applies to you? The best approach is to explore your relationship with gender, identity, and expression. People who use the term genderqueer often feel as if their gender doesn’t fit into the binary classifications or man or woman. They may identify as a combination of genders, neither gender, or something in-between.

What is your personal history when it comes to gender. have you struggled with traditional expectations such as having your gender tied to your biological sex? This can happen, even if you don’t identify as trans. For example, you may be assigned female and feel connected with the concept of womanhood, but not exclusively. Perhaps you embrace a combination of masculinity and femininity. You might even have a history of embracing a variety of gender expressions as a way of being your authentic self.

Take some time to reflect on your mental and emotional health as they relate to your gender. If you’ve felt a disconnect or experienced distress trying to comply with social norms and expectations, it’s possible that your gender identity doesn’t align with conventional definitions. It may help you to explore existing discourse on gender identities and expressions. When you’re exposed to diverse stories and experiences, it can be easier to understand your thoughts on your own gender.

Try experimenting with different expressions of gender too. This will help you find the best ways to present yourself in ways that feel affirming for you. Many people who have been socialized to have a strict and inflexible connection between gender and sex really benefit from this. Even if you determine that you aren’t gender queer, you will develop a deeper understanding of your gender and how that applies to your life. This can have a deeply positive impact on your mental health.