In many societies, there are rigid binary expectations for what it means to be male or female, often excluding those who identify outside of these categories. These rigid binary expectations manifest themselves in various ways, including in public and institutional spaces that are designed around them.
Bathrooms and changing rooms in most buildings are segregated into "male" and "female," which can make it difficult for non-binary individuals who do not identify exclusively as either gender to access these spaces without experiencing discomfort, fear, or harassment. Similarly, forms and questionnaires that require people to select one of two options, such as "Male" or "Female," may exclude non-binary individuals and lead to misunderstandings about their identities. This is just one way in which non-binary individuals face challenges in a world built around binaries.
To overcome these challenges, institutions must prioritize inclusivity and take steps to operationalize it through policy changes.
Some organizations have begun using gender-neutral language in forms and other documents, allowing respondents to self-identify as they see fit.
Some companies have implemented policies that allow employees to choose their own restroom based on personal preference rather than assigned sex at birth.
Some educational institutions have adopted inclusive curriculum and instruction practices that acknowledge diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. By taking these steps, organizations and institutions can create safer and more welcoming environments for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
There is still much work to be done to ensure true inclusion for non-binary individuals in society. Awareness and education are key components of this process, as many people may not understand the experiences and needs of non-binary individuals. In addition, legal protections and cultural norms must evolve to recognize and accommodate non-binary identities. While progress has been made, there is still much more that can and should be done to create truly equitable and inclusive spaces for everyone.
What challenges do non-binary individuals face in public and institutional spaces designed around binary gender norms, and how can inclusion be operationalized?
Non-binary individuals are those who identify themselves outside of the conventional male/female gender binaries. They may choose to identify as transgender, agender, bigender, or other identities that defy the traditional gender roles assigned by society. Non-binary people experience various difficulties in public and institutional settings that have been constructed around binary genders. These challenges range from being misidentified and ignored to experiencing discrimination based on their appearance and behavior.