They/them.
According to the American Psychological Association, around 25-35% of transgender populations identify with these labels. Yet, nonbinary individuals oftentimes get swept under the rug when discussing LGBTQ rights or culture. These genderfluid folk represent a minority within a minority, the "+" in the LGBTQ community. With nonbinary news making headlines, it is important for LGBTQ activists to defend and uplift nonbinary members of the community.
Musician Sam Smith announced to their 13.4 million followers that their pronouns are they/them Sept. 13 in an emotional Instagram post. Most fans responded positively and it sparked an important discussion on nonbinary identity, with many unaware of the identity being educated.
Subsequently, the Internet reacted swiftly as Merriam-Webster announced Sept. 17 that its dictionary will now recognize nonbinary pronouns. Facing ire from conservative commentators like Ben Shapiro, the dictionary-maker’s linguistic shift offers a bold embrace of the genderless in a hyper-gendered society not as accepting of a nonbinary identity.
This backlash from conservative media desperately needs to be countered with a strong, unwavering support from the rest of the LGBTQ community and allies alike. Unfortunately, many in the nonbinary community feel reluctant to come out, even among their more open-minded friends.
Suzannah Weiss writes about a gender studies teacher who told Weiss that they were “a woman... because there was nothing else in our culture for [them] to be.” The extreme dichotomization of gender has put these individuals in a corner for so long that many have no choice but to succumb to society's binds or be ridiculed. Society has even hijacked the colors blue and pink to become unbearably masculinized and feminized.
As a member of the LGBTQ community myself, I often fall victim to this false duality that random things are associated with masculinity or femininity. Whether it be enjoying makeup, sports or both, it is important to remember that a person does not get squared into a gendered box simply because of hobbies, personality or really anything.
Ultimately, our community has a great responsibility to pave the way toward societal nonbinary acceptance. This can range from respecting and correcting identity to advocating for nonbinary causes. If a coworker asks you for more information about a nonbinary friend, inform said coworker on their pronouns and stand up for their identity.
Alternatively, much of the transgender community is in political combat on the bathroom bill debates, nonbinary persons have long been forgotten. Advocating for gender-neutral bathrooms would be a healthy step toward inclusion. Every bit of inclusion makes sure their voices are heard and validates their message.
A musician and a dictionary definition are only just the beginning in ensuring nonbinary individuals are accepted in society; let’s come together as a community and help get them to the finish line.
