Understanding Non-Binary and X-Gender Identities

In recent years, there has been an increased awareness and acceptance of individuals who do not identify as exclusively male or female. These individuals may identify as non-binary (or x-gender in some parts of the world). These are umbrella terms that contain complex and unique individuals.

Hi, I am Bitsy Tandem (self-proclaimed Alien Weirdo), and I am here to stand firm by the LGBTQ+ community and help spread awareness and understanding throughout Japan (where I live) and the rest of the world!

You may be wondering, “what does it mean to be non-binary or Xジェンダー (X-gender)”?

Non-binary is a term used to describe people who do not identify as exclusively male or female. Similarly, in Japan Xジェンダー (X-gender) is often used as an umbrella term by people who do not feel that they fit within the binary gender categories of male and female. These both encompass a wide range of gender identities and experiences that are outside of the traditional binary understanding of gender.

In many ways, especially here in Japan, X-gender is used as a third gender “X” that differs from “M”, for male, or “F”, for female. Similar to how some use the terms “genderqueer” or “non-binary” in the United States. These are considered all-inclusive and are for anyone who feels they are outside the “norm” (whatever that means, I think Normal is just a construct of our imaginations).

They/Them

It is important to remember that gender identity is a deeply personal and individual experience. Not everyone who identifies as non-binary or x-gender will have the same experiences or feelings about their gender identity. Some non-binary people may choose to express their gender through clothing, pronouns, or names, while others simply may not care to share.

It is important to respect and support all individuals. Every human is unique and the freedom to express oneself and the ability to live your truth, are key aspects of a healthy and creative lifestyle. And yes, sometimes this means using the pronouns and names that you may not be used to. Being mindful of the language we use when talking about gender is an important way to create a safe and inclusive space for non-binary and x-gender individuals.

Some may identify as both male & female at the same time, while others are neither or a specific combination of both. Non-binary people may also identify as genderqueer, genderfluid, or agender. Just to name a few most common ones. There really have been a huge amount of identification popping up these days, and honestly, it makes sense why. You see, people, all people, like to be near kind and like-minded individuals.

So, where a binary person may feel overwhelmed by the variety, a non-binary person can now easily find other people who are feeling something similar to how they feel themself, just by a tagline or an introduction.

ENBY

The tagline that changed the internet, ENBY. When you see this on someone’s Twitter or Instagram bio, know that they are Non-Binary and proud of it! It is time to bring ENBY and X-Gender Awareness to Japan and the world! Say it loud!!! “I am the founder of iiisekai Production Studios, and a Non-Binary A-gender-X identifying individual.” Now it is your turn~

As someone who grew up in a very critical social forum and did not understand why I felt so uncomfortable in my body for many years, I can understand the pressures the Japanese people, and many others, feel to stay in line and emulate what is considered to be “Normal”.  But the freedom and self-kindness that comes from accepting that you are different is so important. Because the truth is,  no one is 100% “Normal”. Every person is an individual with their own love and their own brand of weird.

And I think that is beautiful.

Non-binary and x-gender identities are becoming more visible and accepted. However, there is still a long way to go in terms of understanding and acceptance. It is important to educate ourselves, to be respectful and supportive of individuals, and to create a more inclusive and accepting society for us all.

Before I sign off, I would like to ask you to Support our mission of acceptance and inclusivity by purchasing one of our X-gender enamel pins if you or a loved one identifies as Non-binary.

Though we can’t change people’s hearts overnight, we can continue to inspire others to live in their own truth by showing how we chose to live in ours.

Thank you so much!

Stay Strange,

Bitsy_the_Alien