International Non-binary Peoples Day

International Non-binary People’s Day was first celebrated on 14^th July 2012. The date was chosen for being exactly halfway between International Men’s Day and International Women’s Day.

The day is dedicated to celebrating non-binary people and raising awareness of the issues they face.

In a world where gender recognition has a long way to go, days dedicated to acknowledging different gender identities are essential in legitimising individualities.

Non-binary is an umbrella term for gender identities that are neither male nor female. Sometimes people describe themselves as enbies, gender-fluid, agender, or gender non-conforming. The way people describe themselves is completely up to them – and it’s important to respect that. Non-binary isn’t a sexuality, but an identity.

Non-binary people have existed for thousands of years in different countries and cultures around the world. Many identities and expressions can exist within its definition. To exist outside strict definitions is powerful and also vulnerable, which is why we should admire people who are able to live their lives honestly.

How can we better support non-binary people and become better allies?

• Be respectful of other people and use the correct pronouns. Simply asking ‘what are your pronouns?’ or offering your own pronouns first will ensure you address people correctly and with respect.
• Include your pronouns in your email signature.
• Use inclusive and gender-neutral language when addressing groups of people such as ‘everyone’ rather than ‘ladies and gentlemen’.
• Practise using gender neutral language in everyday life such as ‘ask that person’ rather than ‘ask that man’ or the singular ‘their’ rather than ‘his/her’. You will already use they/their/them without realising so it’s not really any more effort to make a conscious effort to use more gender-neutral language.
• Use words that define a relationship rather than gender, such as ‘parents’ or ‘siblings’.
• Not everyone is comfortable with gendered titles like Mr or Miss. Offer alternatives or ask if you can use their first name rather than Ms …

None of these will cause you any harm but will help make someone else feel valued.

For more information about International Non-binary People’s Da and non-binary identities, you can visit Papyrus and Stonewall

You can read Lu and Ree’s accounts of being non-binary, as well as many other personal stories here:

Another non-binary person’s story is available here.

The Council work extremely hard to ensure that we offer a safe and enjoyable place for LGBTQ+ people to work and to ensure that the Vale of Glamorgan area is a positive and nurturing environment therein. If you would like to get involved in this, or if you have any suggestions for how to make things better, please contact GLAM, our LGBTQ+ Staff Network.

If you are concerned about discrimination or harassment, or want more information about how to report it, please refer to the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s grievance policy.