What does it mean to be transgender?

Transgender individuals are individuals whose innate sense of gender differs from the gender assigned to them at birth. The term “trans” is frequently employed as an abbreviated form of “transgender.”

What’s the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity?

Gender identity and sexual orientation are distinct aspects of a person’s identity. Gender identity pertains to an individual’s internal understanding and recognition of their own gender, such as identifying as a man, a woman, or another gender. On the other hand, sexual orientation concerns an individual’s romantic, emotional, and/or sexual attraction to others.

It is important to recognize that, similar to cisgender individuals, transgender individuals can possess any sexual orientation. For instance, a transgender man, who lives as a man, may experience primary attraction to other men and identify as a gay man. Alternatively, they may primarily be attracted to women and identify as a straight man. Furthermore, transgender individuals can identify with any other sexual orientation, reflecting the diversity of human experiences and relationships.

How does someone know that they are transgender?

The realization of being transgender can occur at any stage of life. Some individuals can recall their awareness from early memories, having an inherent understanding of their gender identity. Others may require more time to comprehend their transgender identity. Certain individuals may spend years feeling out of place without fully comprehending the reasons, while others may consciously avoid contemplating or discussing their gender due to fear, shame, or confusion. Attempting to suppress or alter one’s gender identity is not effective and can lead to significant emotional and mental distress.

As transgender individuals gain greater visibility in the media and within communities, more people are able to recognize and comprehend their own experiences. This increased awareness can create a safer and more comfortable environment for transgender individuals to share their identity with others.

For many transgender individuals, the process of self-discovery and deciding to embark on a gender transition requires deep reflection. Coming out as transgender carries the risk of social stigma, discrimination, and harassment. While some parents, friends, coworkers, classmates, and neighbors may be accepting, there is also the fear of rejection from loved ones and others in their lives. Despite these potential risks, embracing one’s gender identity openly and living an authentic life can be a transformative and even life-saving decision.

What does it mean to be non-binary?

Non-binary is an identity adopted by individuals who do not exclusively identify as either male or female. Instead, they may identify as a combination of both genders, somewhere along a spectrum between the two, or as existing entirely outside of these conventional categories. It is important to note that while many non-binary individuals also identify as transgender, not all do. Non-binary serves as an umbrella term encompassing various identities, including but not limited to agender, bigender, genderqueer, and gender fluid. This diverse range of identities challenges the traditional binary understanding of gender and acknowledges the complexity and fluidity of gender experiences.

What is transphobia?

Transphobia refers to the targeted prejudice and fear directed at transgender and non-binary individuals, which unfortunately persists in our society. It is often fueled by bigotry and contributes to systemic inequalities. Detractors of transgender and non-binary people frequently try to enforce rigid and sexist notions surrounding sex and gender in order to undermine their identities and experiences. This oppressive mindset seeks to invalidate the diverse range of gender identities and perpetuates discrimination against transgender and non-binary individuals.

How do I know which pronouns to use?

It is crucial to respect the pronouns of transgender and non-binary individuals that correspond with their gender identity. If uncertain about which pronouns to use, it is appropriate to politely ask for a person’s name and preferred pronouns. You can also share your own pronouns to create a comfortable environment where others feel invited to share theirs.

Misgendering, which involves using incorrect pronouns for a transgender or non-binary person, can cause distress and invalidate their identity. It is important to be mindful and strive to use the correct pronouns.

It is worth noting that some transgender and non-binary individuals may not identify within the gender binary and prefer not to use pronouns typically associated with men (he/him) or women (she/her). Instead, they may prefer the use of their names, gender-neutral pronouns such as “they/them,” or other specific pronouns like “fae/faer” or “ey/em.” Respecting and using the preferred pronouns of each individual is an essential step toward acknowledging and affirming their gender identity.