Did you know that 1.6 million people in the United States identify as different genders than the ones they were born as? This is also known as being transgender.
The gender spectrum may seem big and confusing to anyone new to learning about diversity and inclusion, but there are plenty of people willing to help – such as us.
If you’d like to learn more about the gender spectrum, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll explain things so you won’t be confused and can support any transgender loved ones.
A Brief Introduction to the Gender Spectrum
The biggest thing to keep in mind is that gender is not binary. Many people think of it in colors. Gender is not either pink or blue with a weird purple area in between; gender is the entire color wheel, with many different gender identities.
Gender has been interpreted differently by many different cultures across history. Transgender people have always been around. Knowing this will help you to know it isn’t a “trend” like some people believe.
Sex and gender are not the same things. Sex is what you were born as biologically. Gender is how you identify, which is why it can’t be binary – it’s a social construct, and you determine what it means for you.
Furthermore, there are more and more people identifying as a different gender. This is not because they are hopping on some type of “trend”. This is because we live in an age where it is safer for people to be themselves.
How to Be a Good Ally
The best thing that you can do in regards to gender inclusivity is to listen. Don’t dismiss the stories of transgender people. Take them and their feelings seriously, and learn from what they have to say.
Be supportive, even if you don’t yet understand. Having a supportive person in their life makes a transgender person’s transition much easier. Even more than that, it can reduce a transgender person’s risk of suicide.
If you’re having a hard time adjusting, don’t talk about it to the transgender person. What you see as a hard process is full of joy for them. You should allow them to be joyful.
Lastly, put in the work it takes to understand them. Find places that you can learn from and do your research. Find people that you can trust and ask them questions.
One good place to learn is cadehildreth.com. They can help you process the gender spectrum and all it stands for.
Check Out Our Website
Now that you’ve heard a bit about the gender spectrum, you’re ready to learn more. But before you go digging for more information on gender identities, why don’t you check out our website?
We offer information on a variety of topics, from education to finances. So wherever your interest lies, we’re sure that we’ll have something for you.Â
Go learn something new today, and happy reading to you!
