Everything you need to know about the non-binary identity. What it means and how to explore your non-binary identity.

Non-binary is an umbrella term used to describe gender identities that do not fit within the traditional male and female categories. People who identify as non-binary may experience a gender that is outside the binary system, which typically classifies individuals as either male or female. Non-binary people might identify with aspects of both genders, neither gender, or a different gender entirely.

Some common non-binary identities include:

  • Genderqueer: A term often used interchangeably with non-binary, though some may prefer it as a more specific identity. It signifies rejecting traditional gender norms and categories.
  • Genderfluid: A person whose gender identity changes or shifts over time. They might feel different genders at different times.
  • Agender: A person who does not identify with any gender. They may feel a lack of gender or feel outside the concept of gender entirely.
  • Bigender: A person who identifies with two distinct genders, either at different times or simultaneously.
  • Demiboy/Demigirl: These terms refer to someone who identifies partially (but not fully) with the gender of “boy” or “girl.”

Non-binary people may use a variety of pronouns, such as they/them, or might use neopronouns like xe/xem or ze/zir, depending on their personal preference.

It’s important to note that being non-binary is about gender identity, not sexual orientation. A non-binary person can have any sexual orientation, just like people of any other gender.

Non-binary people may also use terms like “gender non-conforming” to describe their expression, which means they don’t conform to traditional gender roles or expectations but may still identify with one or more genders.

The key idea is that non-binary identities exist outside the rigid gender binary and are part of the broader spectrum of human gender experience.

What is the Non-Binary Flag?

The non-binary pride flag was created in 2014 by Kye Rowan to provide a symbol for those who identify outside the traditional male/female gender binary. The flag consists of four horizontal stripes:

  1. Yellow (top stripe): Represents people whose gender exists outside the binary, such as non-binary individuals.
  2. White: Represents people who are non-binary, but whose gender is a mix of male and female, or those who identify as gender-neutral or as a combination of genders.
  3. Purple: Represents people who identify as a blend of male and female, or a third gender. It is a combination of blue (traditionally male) and pink (traditionally female) to symbolize the spectrum between genders.
  4. Black (bottom stripe): Represents people who are agender, meaning they feel they have no gender or are gender-neutral.

The flag’s design was created to reflect the diversity of non-binary identities and experiences. The colours are meant to convey the broad spectrum of gender identities outside the binary of male and female. It’s a symbol of pride and visibility for non-binary people.