Non Binary

1/13/2022 || Riley Hester

Enby?

The enby community is one of the most misrepresented and misunderstood. They haven't had a voice for long, but now that they do, they're still often ignored, ridiculed, and doubted. So what does it mean to be enby? Well, enby, short for non-binary ( enby= n.b. ) is an umbrella term for gender identities outside of the binary genders that most people are familiar with- male and female. Although many people disagree with the legitimacy of other genders besides male and female, scientists have spoken up, validating the claims of a gender spectrum.

Pronouns

Generally, people who are non binary go by they/them pronouns, however, many go by different combinations of pronouns- for example, 'he/they', 'they/her', 'he/her', etc. And pronouns don't always mean gender- although they are usually associated with one, such as if somebody identifies as male but uses 'they/she'. There is also a wave of 'neo-pronouns', new pronouns that aren't associated with any gender, like 'xe/xem' or 'ey/em'. ( Helpful article explaining neo pronouns: Neo Pronouns ) Also, sometimes people change their name. It is important to respect people's new names and pronouns- but if you forget, it's okay! What's important is that you're trying.

Conclusion

If I had a slice of garlic bread for every gender, I could open a bakery. It may seem confusing. It may be hard to adjust to. But we need to try our best to understand people before we comment on them. Please research before forming your opinion and respect what people ask for, if it's something as simple as changing what you address them as. And I assure you- nobody is identifying as an attack helicopter. Have a wonderful day.

https://cadehildreth.com/gender-spectrum/

https://www.mykidisgay.com/blog/defining-neopronouns

https://www.psycom.net/nonbinary

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-does-it-mean-to-be-non-binary-or-have-non-binary-gender-4172702

https://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/a32894469/non-binary-meaning/