The social evolutions, the struggles to achieve rights and the social, mental and sexual liberation that many societies have experienced (and are experiencing) today, have made it possible for many people to explore their gender and allow themselves to experience it to the fullest. Previously, and as a consequence of the repression associated with dissident people and those outside the norm, they could not even consider exploring the reality of their gender and had to live their entire lives in fear and looking for hiding places.
Fortunately, in recent years plural debates have been generated, seeking greater diversity and representation in most sectors of society. The fact that many people are experiencing sexual and gender identities that are different from the norm generates new spaces and security for all those people who have always felt on the margins or have not been able to understand the development of their gender or identify with it.
In this article we are going to talk about queer gender identities, delving mainly into what is genderfluid We will understand gender as a social construct and discuss different ways of experiencing it, shedding light on realities that are often relegated to a lack of representation and voice.
Understanding gender
Before discovering what queer identities are and what it means to be a gender-fluid person, it is important to review different concepts traditionally associated with gender, understanding how this construct has evolved to the present day.
1. Gender associated with sex
Throughout history, the genre has served to divide and categorize people based on predefined expectations and roles and based on biological characteristics, sex Traditionally, gender has been understood as a rigid and purely physical dichotomy; male or female, with roles and behaviors associated with each category. In this way, anyone who behaved differently from these norms and expectations was the object of criticism, ridicule, social exclusion, marginalization, punishment and even death.
2. Gender as a social construct
Fortunately, social changes and the fight for plural and diverse rights have made it easier for gender to be understood as a social construct today. Thus, sex and gender are understood in different ways and not necessarily linked Thus, sex would refer to the reproductive organs of each person, and gender, to the gender conception that each person makes of themselves. In this way, gender is understood as a mere social conception, based on roles and expectations linked to each gender identity and that must be deconstructed so that each identity has a significant and different value.
3. News and criticism of gender norms
Increasingly, people identify and express their gender in diverse ways. The term “non-binary” has become popular to describe those who do not identify exclusively as men or women. Gender identities such as gender queer, gender fluid and gender agender have also emerged, which challenge traditional categories and recognize the diversity of gender experiences Criticism of gender norms has focused on questioning the validity of gender expectations imposed by society. It is argued that these norms limit people’s freedom and personal development by forcing them to conform to predefined roles and behaviors.
What are queer identities?
As we have commented previously, the challenge to traditional norms associated with the conception of gender has facilitated the questioning of gender and the expectations associated with it. In this way, queer identities have emerged and can be understood as an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of gender experiences and sexual orientations that challenge traditional and binary norms. The word “queer” used to be used pejoratively to stigmatize and differentiate non-heterosexual people, but in recent decades, it has been reappropriated as an empowering identity that encompasses diversity in terms of gender and sexuality.
1. Diversity in queer identities
Across the spectrum of queer identities, we find a great diversity of experiences. In principle, each gender identity should not be understood as an instruction manual or as a list of “tasks” to complete; Each person experiences their gender in a different way and it is important to create spaces for self-knowledge, exploration and plural presentation. Some of the queer identities are, for example:
2. The importance of queer identities
Queer identities are essential to understanding the diversity of human experiences in terms of gender and sexuality. By questioning traditional and binary categories, these identities challenge the discrimination and stigmatization faced by people who do not fit conventional norms. Despite progress in the acceptance of queer identities, many people still face discrimination and lack of understanding The fight for equal rights, visibility and respect continues to be a priority for activists and defenders of queer identities around the world.
What is genderfluid?
Already presented above, let’s focus on the definition of genderfluid to better understand the main characteristics of this challenging way of understanding gender.
Non-fluid gender is a gender identity that challenges the traditional notion that gender is static and constant throughout a person’s life Unlike conventional gender identities, genderfluid people experience fluidity and change in their gender identity, meaning that their sense of gender can change over time, in different situations, or even day to day.
1. Gender fluidity
For genderfluid people, their gender identity is not limited to the binary categories of “man” or “woman.” They may identify at some point on the gender spectrum or at a combination of several points over time. This can manifest itself through changes in gender expression, the pronouns they prefer to use, or the way they feel about their gender at a given moment.
2. The importance of recognizing fluid gender
Recognizing and respecting fluid gender identity is essential to creating an inclusive and understanding environment Genderfluid people often face misunderstandings and prejudices due to a lack of knowledge about their unique experience. By accepting and validating their identities, we contribute to a more inclusive society that respects the diversity of gender experiences.
How to treat a gender fluid person?
When we interact with genderfluid people, it is essential to show respect, empathy and understanding towards their identities and experiences. You may feel confused about how to treat these people to respect their identity and not be hurtful, so here we recommend, in conclusion, some guidelines for treating a gender fluid person:
1. Active listening
Listen to these people and the realities they have to tell you. Let these people share their experiences and feelings about their gender identity and don’t take anything for granted or make assumptions It is important to keep in mind that each person can experience their gender and sexuality in a certain way and you must respect that.
2. Use the correct pronouns
Ask and use the person’s preferred pronouns. It’s better to respectfully ask about their pronouns than to assume something they’re not. Some genderfluid people may prefer neutral pronouns, while others may prefer a combination of traditional pronouns.
3. Avoid intrusive questions
Don’t ask personal or intrusive questions about the person’s gender identity unless they have allowed you to. Privacy and consent are essential, and using a position of power over the other person to ask for unnecessary specific details about their sexuality and gender can be considered a form of aggression.
4. Respect gender expression
Gender expression or the way in which gender-fluid people present themselves to others can vary over time; This is mainly what your identity consists of. Respect the way they present themselves and don’t make negative or hurtful comments about their appearance or choice of clothing, for example.