July 14 is recognized around the world as International Non-Binary People’s Day. This occasion shines a light on those who are non-binary and celebrates the rich diversity of the non-binary and gender non-conforming community!

The term non-binary describes someone who does not identify exclusively as one of the gender binary identities: male or female. Non-binary folks may identify as being both a man and a woman, flowing between the binaries (sometimes called genderfluid), or as falling completely outside the binary entirely. Some non-binary people may also identify as transgender, though it is important to note that these identities, while they may intersect, are not synonymous.

While American culture may reinforce the notion that gender exists as a strict binary, we know there is so much more diversity and vibrancy to gender identity and expression. If you are looking to help create an affirming, inclusive space for your non-binary friends, family, peers, or colleagues, then check out this great resources from Out & Equal Workplace advocates. Non-binary folx show us every day that knowing one’s self and identity is a powerful thing that no one can strip away, so let’s find ways to support and empower them!

There’s a lot of work to be done in securing full protections and rights for our non-binary siblings, but amid that work we must take time to recognize and uplift as well. Curious to hear from non-binary people what their lived experiences are like? Check out the video below, where 5 non-binary folx talk about what being non-binary means to them and how you can be more inclusive of the non-binary community in your daily life!

About Cascade AIDS Project

CAP is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1985 as a grassroots response to the AIDS crisis. As the oldest and largest community-based HIV services provider in Oregon and southwest Washington, we seek to support and empower all people with or affected by HIV, reduce stigma, and provide the LGBTQ+ community with compassionate healthcare. We do so by helping to ensure the health and well-being of our program participants each year through health, housing, and other social services. When the need for affordable, accessible, and culturally affirming primary care services was identified as a community need, we responded by opening Prism Health in 2017.  More information can be found at www.capnw.org.