Today we celebrate those who identify as non-binary, while also acknowledging the struggles with discrimination and equality that they face. It is also a day to focus on how we can support non-binary individuals.
What does non-binary mean?
The following definition was taken from Qmunity’s Queer Glossary: A collection, continuum, or spectrum of gender identities and expressions, often based on the rejection of the assumption that gender is strictly an either/or option of male/men or female/women, based on the sex assigned to a person at birth. Some non-binary individuals may also hold trans identities, but the terms non-binary and trans are distinct and should not be used interchangeably.
Be a non-binary ally
In many countries, there is still no legal recognition for non-binary people (the US being one of those countries). It is important to show support for non-binary people as we work towards being a more inclusive community.
Here are some ways that you can be an ally to non-binary people:
- Take the time to understand the difference between gender identity and gender expression — expression is how someone outwardly expresses themselves, whereas identity refers that person’s experience of their gender and isn’t concerned with the outward expression.
- Use inclusive language — rather than using he or she, use terms like they, theirs, and everyone.
- When you introduce yourself, share your pronouns. This opens the door for others to share theirs, in a safe space.
- Avoid making assumptions around gender. Ask the person what their pronouns are.
- Speak up — it may not always be easy, but if you hear disinformation or hate speech, speak up. Use this as a time to educate others.
How Covenant House supports non-binary youth
We are always learning and growing as an organization to become more inclusive. Annual training and working with organizations that focus on queer youth, helps Covenant House expand and adapt its services to better serve youth in the community.
Non-binary youth in the Crisis Program are welcome to choose the floor that they feel most comfortable on for their accommodation.
Clothes that are available for youth in the clothing room are not divided into sections based on gender. And as much as possible, the Gifts-in-Kind team choose gender neutral clothing for the clothing room.
All washrooms in our buildings are gender neutral.
The Rainbow Advisory Committee at Covenant House is comprised of 2SLGBTQAI+ staff from various roles and departments. The committee acts as an advisory group to management and exists to ensure that youth from the 2SLGBTQAI+ population are being served well by the agency, and provided with the care and support they need to heal from their unique traumas.
Art therapy is one of the cornerstones of mental health care at Covenant House Vancouver. It’s been shown to reduce the impacts of trauma and help young people process complex experiences. The vast majority of youth we serve at CHV have experienced significant trauma, and 2SLGBTQAI+ youth have often suffered very unique and particular forms of trauma because they have been ostracized by those closest to them. By offering specific art therapy sessions (both group and individual), we provide young people with the tools they need to manage their own mental health. Art therapy also creates an opportunity for youth to form deep-rooted and healing relationships and a renewed sense of community.
To foster community and a general sense of acceptance, Covenant House offer events, workshops, outings, and services across our programs, specifically for the 2SLGBTQAI+community. Creativity, play, and fun are a big part of these offerings — a reminder that, despite hardship, queer youth deserve to celebrate who they are and find their own unique expressions of joy.
We would like to wish a very happy International Non-Binary People’s Day to everyone in that community.