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Recently, conversations around gender identity have expanded beyond the traditional male-female binary. One term that has gained recognition is non-binary, which refers to individuals who don’t exclusively identify as a man or a woman, at SHAVA.CO, we celebrate all gender identities, including non-binary people, through our inclusive non-binary pride flag collection.
This guide will explore what this gender means, how it differs from related identities like genderfluid and agender, and how to support individuals in everyday life.
Before defining non-binary, it’s essential to understand binary gender, the traditional classification of male and female. Many societies operate under this system, assuming everyone fits into one of these two categories. However, gender is a spectrum, and not everyone identifies strictly as a man or a woman.
This gender (sometimes written as nonbinary or abbreviated as NB/enby) is an umbrella term for gender identities that don’t fit within the male-female binary. Some individuals of this gender may feel:
A mix of both genders (bigender), using bigender pronouns like they/them or alternating between he/she depending on their experience.
Neither male nor female (agender), which differs from genderfluid vs. nonbinary identities in its consistent lack of gender affiliation.
A fluid identity that changes over time (genderfluid), where their sense of self may shift between masculine, feminine, or other expressions—unlike NB vs. gender fluid, which refers to a fixed identity outside the binary.
Others might identify as genderqueer, embracing a broader rejection of traditional categories, or find that terms like demisexual describe their orientation while their gender remains distinct.
While non-binary is a broad term, genderfluid people experience shifts in their gender identity. A genderfluid person might feel more masculine one day and more feminine another, whereas an NB individual may have a consistent identity outside the binary.
Agender individuals feel a complete lack of gender or neutrality, often describing themselves as genderless, while NB people may still have a gender identity - just not one that's strictly male or female. The difference between this gender and agender identities is important to understand, as agender falls under the NB umbrella but represents a distinct experience of gender absence. Some agender people may use neutral pronouns or no pronouns at all, while other non-binary individuals might prefer gender-neutral pronouns that still reflect their specific gender identity. This distinction highlights how diverse gender experiences can be beyond the traditional gender binary system.
Many people question their gender identity at some point. You might be non-binary if you:
• Feel uncomfortable being labeled strictly as a man or woman
• Prefer gender-neutral pronouns (they/them, xe/xem)
• Relate strongly to non-binary characters in media
• Experience gender dysphoria about gendered traits
• Feel terms like "genderqueer" or "agender" fit better than male/female
• Resisted gendered expectations growing up
Remember, there's no single way to be non-binary. If you're exploring your identity, SHAVA.CO offers supportive resources and pride products to help you on your journey.
Many people choose non-binary names that are gender-neutral, often selecting from NB names lists or creating unique identifiers that reflect their identity. Always use a person's correct pronouns—whether they/them, ze/zir, or others—as this validates their gender identity and shows respect. Some may also explore gender-neutral terms like "Mx." instead of "Mr." or "Ms." in formal settings.
If your child identifies as NB, listen to their feelings and use their preferred name and pronouns. Avoid forcing them into gendered roles.
Companies should support NB employees by:
Offering gender-neutral restrooms
Including non-binary options in HR forms
Educating staff on gender diversity
One widespread misunderstanding is the idea that these identities are a modern trend. In reality, many cultures throughout history have acknowledged genders outside the binary. Indigenous communities, for example, have long recognized Two-Spirit people, while South Asian cultures have traditions like the Hijra. NB identities are not new—they are simply gaining more visibility today.
Another misconception is that individuals are confused about their gender. The truth is, gender identity is an internal and deeply personal experience. Non-binary people often have a strong, clear sense of self that doesn’t fit within traditional male or female categories. Their identity is just as valid as anyone else’s.
Finally, some assume that non-binary people have a specific "look" or that their appearance will signal their gender identity. However, non-binary individuals express themselves in countless ways—some may present in a traditionally masculine or feminine way, while others reject gendered expectations entirely. Appearance doesn’t define gender, and you can’t assume someone’s identity based on how they look.
Genderqueer is a broader term that may include NB identities, but some people prefer one label over the other.
Yes! Couples of this gender can have any romantic or sexual orientation, just like anyone else.
Gender is a spectrum, not strictly binary. Many cultures recognize non-binary and genderless identities.
Use their chosen name and pronouns. If unsure, ask respectfully.
Gender-neutral refers to language, spaces, or products that don’t assume male or female identity.
Yes! Sexual orientation (like demisexual) is separate from gender identity.
Yes! The pride flag (yellow, white, purple, black) represents the community. Explore ours at SHAVA.CO’s Non-Binary Pride Collection.
Understanding what non-binary means helps create a more inclusive world. Whether you’re exploring your own identity or supporting a loved one, recognizing gender diversity is crucial. At SHAVA.CO, we stand with the LGBTQ community by offering pride products that celebrate all identities.
For more resources, check out our Pride Collection and join the movement toward acceptance and equality.
