Non-binary gender is an umbrella term for any gender which does not fit the traditional male and female binary. Androgynous, intergender, neutral gender, multiple genders, gender fluid, demigender, and intersex are all types of non-binary genders. Transgender people often identify with a non-binary gender.
Non-binary people have a variety of sexual orientations, as gender identity and sexual preference are not linked.
People who identify with any non-binary gender are also sometimes called genderqueer. However, this term is interpreted as transphobic by some people.
There is a wide spectrum of non-binary genders. Some people who identify as non-binary have a gender with elements of both masculine and feminine, known as androgynous. Others feel their gender identity sits somewhere between the male and female binary. Some people feel they have multiple genders while others feel they have no gender identity, or a neutral gender identity. Some non-binary people feel their gender identity varies over time while others feel it is more consistent. Other people have a strong connection to a non-binary gender while others feel their connection is much weaker.
Some people believe their non-binary gender identity was culturally specific to their ancestors but not seen in the modern world. Intersex people, born with both male and female biological characteristics, are also called as having non-binary genders.
People with non-binary genders often take steps to present themselves in a way which matches their gender identity. They may adopt a more unisex name, use gender-neutral pronouns, and dress in a more androgynous way. They may also undergo hormone therapy or surgery to alter their bodies so they more closely reflect their gender identities. They may also legally change their gender status to non-binary in some Washington, California, and Oregon.
