If you identify as a gender abolitionist, just say that, man and woman are binary terms, pick literally any other word to describe your experience, if you are gender fluid, that’s still non-binary because you haven’t picked one or the other 😫😩 I don’t care how many dresses I wear, how much makeup I put on, how many hours a day in my boobs are touching my chin, just like Edward Kynnaston, I am a man who plays a woman persona for work, and I would thank you very much not to confuse everybody else into thinking that man is a non-binary term
As someone navigating the complexities of gender identity, I have found that language plays a crucial role in expressing how we see ourselves and how others perceive us. The binary terms 'man' and 'woman' have historically been used to categorize people strictly, but many of us find those labels limiting. Gender fluidity, for instance, captures experiences that don't fit neatly into either category. I resonate with the idea that if you identify as gender fluid, you are embracing non-binary because you don't exclusively pick one over the other. This perspective helps validate various identities and provides a framework for understanding the diversity in human experience. What struck me in the discussion is the personal impact of performing a gender persona, such as playing a woman’s role for work while identifying as a man, much like Edward Kynnaston did historically. It highlights how gender expression and identity can be distinct yet deeply intertwined. For those of us who wear makeup or dresses or express femininity while identifying as men, it's important that our identity isn’t misunderstood or erased by inaccurate labels. This clarity helps reduce alienation within communities and promotes respect for individual experiences. I also appreciate the conversation around the misuse of terms like "non-binary" when applied to men or women who identify strictly in the binary. It showcases how language accuracy helps prevent confusion and misgendering. It’s empowering to see discussions encouraging people to "pick literally any other word to describe your experience" if they don’t align with traditional binaries. Such encouragement fosters inclusivity and acknowledges that gender identity is deeply personal and variable. In my journey, embracing these nuances has allowed me not only to better understand myself but also to communicate more clearly with others. It’s vital that conversations about gender are respectful and informed to prevent ridicule or misunderstanding, as pointed out by the caution against quick judgments without full context. Ultimately, fostering a space where people can freely describe their experiences without pressure to conform will enrich how we all relate to gender in everyday life.