International Non-Binary Peoples Day, first commemorated in 2012, is observed each year on 14th July. This day is dedicated to celebrating and raising awareness to the issues faced by non-binary people across the world.
This particular day was chosen as the most appropriate to celebrate because it falls precisely between International Women’s Day (8th of March) and International Men’s Day (19th of November).
What does ‘non-binary’ mean?
The term refers to those who do not identify as exclusively male or female. Non-binary identities can vary greatly, as one individual may identify as both male and female, another may feel that they exist somewhere in between, and another may identify as neither. Some individuals experience their gender as fluid, meaning it can change over time. As a result, a variety of terms are used to describe these identities, including gender-fluid, two spirits and bigender, among others. These diverse gender identities also fall under the Transgender umbrella, so it’s important to recognise that someone who identifies as non-binary may also identify as trans. How a person identifies is entirely personal to them.
Non-Binary HistoryWhile ‘non-binary’ may seem like a new term, the existence of non-binary people has a long history, with evidence of this dating as far back as at least 2000 BC, where many cultures acknowledged and respected gender diversity. For instance, indigenous communities in North America have long recognised ‘Two-Spirit’ people, who identify as a combination of masculine and feminine characteristics. In South Asian history, the term ‘Hijra’ is found throughout religious Hindu texts and refers to individuals who live as a different gender to the one assigned to them at birth. By today’s descriptors, some Hijra’s may identify as Trans Women while other’s might identify as gender fluid. These examples demonstrate that non-binary identities are not a modern concept but have been recognised throughout history. Understanding this prevalent history emphasises the importance of celebrating International Non-Binary Persons Day to honour non-binary individuals in our societies and to continue advocating for their recognition and rights.
How to step up as an ally for Non-Binary People
Educate yourself: Take the time to research and learn about non-binary identities from reliable sources, especially from non-binary individuals themselves.
Introduce yourself with your name and your pronouns: This practice normalises sharing pronouns and creates an inclusive environment.
Put your pronouns in your email signature: This signals respect and recognises diverse gender pronouns and encourages others to do the same.
Use inclusive language: When referring to people and groups, use inclusive language. Opt for ‘they’ instead of assuming ‘he’ or ‘she’. Also use terms like ‘everyone’ instead of gendered terms ‘ladies’ or ‘gentlemen’. This can also be applied when discussing an individual’s partner, where instead of referring to a husband, wife, boyfriend or girlfriend, we use terms like partner. It’s always good practice not to make assumptions but rather allow people the space to feel safe and comfortable to share.
Include inclusive language throughout workplace policies: Ensure that workplace documents use inclusive language, replacing gendered pronouns like ‘he’ or ‘she’ with ‘they’. This makes documents applicable to all colleagues, regardless of their gender identity.
Challenge discrimination: Speak out against discriminatory behaviour and language to demonstrate your commitment to supporting non-binary individuals and creating an inclusive environment for everyone.
Further support
- Hart gables (http://www.hartgables.org.uk) – A charity that provides support, training, and referral for LGBTQ+ individuals
- Be Trans (https://be-north.org.uk) – A supportive space for people to express themselves and receive peer support
- AKT (https://www.akt.org.uk) – provide support to LGBTQ+ young people at risk of, or experiencing homelessness support they need to thrive
- MESMAC (https://www.mesmac.co.uk/about-us/who-we-are) – Offer services to various communities across Yorkshire