What Does It Mean to Identify as Genderqueer?

Before we get deep into the genderqueer definition, it’s probably a good idea to take a moment to explore what the word queer means today.  It has a complex history and can have different meanings depending on context.

Its use has evolved over time and some people might find the word triggering, because it has historically been used as a derogatory term to insult people who do not conform to being heterosexual or cisgender ( a person whose gender identity corresponds with the sex registered for them at birth) norms. It has long been used as a slur against LGBTQIA+ people and can be associated with discrimination and prejudice.

In recent decades, many LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities have reclaimed the term queer as a way to empower themselves and challenge the stigma associated with it. It has been embraced as a self-identifying term by some people to signify that they do not conform to traditional sexual orientation or gender identity norms.

Today, queer is often used as an umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of non-heteronormative and non-cisnormative identities and orientations. If you prefer to express an element of nuance or complexity to your identity, or indeed if you would prefer to keep the specifics of your sexual preference private, it is a useful way of signaling that you are part of the LGBTQIA+ community without being too specific. Queer can refer to anyone who is not exclusively heterosexual and/or cisgender. This inclusive usage recognizes the diversity of experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community.

Meanwhile, in academic and theoretical contexts, ‘queer theory’ refers to a field of study that critically examines issues related to sexuality, gender, identity, and power. It challenges traditional norms and assumptions about these topics and explores the intersections of various identities and experiences.

Queer can also be used politically and in activism to signify resistance to heteronormative and cisnormative structures and to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. It can be used as a verb as well as an adjective, for example, ‘it’s time we queer the very idea of the nuclear family’.

This being said, it’s important to remember that each person’s relationship to the word is different and a result of varying life experiences. Be open-minded and listen with kindness, understanding and respect if someone admits to finding the word queer problematic. 

Some people experience fluidity in their gender, meaning that their gender identity can change over time, or even from one moment to the next. Some genderqueer people may continuously question their gender identity, while others can experience shifts during specific periods. Genderqueer exists along a spectrum and moves between the traditional binary genders of man and woman.

This fluidity means a genderqueer person might sometimes feel more masculine, other times more feminine, both, or neither. Within this is the chance to express gender identity (or lack of it) in a variety of ways, which can include: fashion, hairstyles, makeup, or other forms of self-expression that may not conform to societal expectations associated with assigned sex.

However, there is no one right way to look genderqueer and someone’s visual presentation has nothing to do with how they identify. We should all be wary of making any assumptions in this respect. For example, you might present in a way that conforms to society’s expectations of what it means to look masculine or feminine but still identify as genderqueer. 

While some people use the terms genderqueer and genderfluid and non-binary interchangeably, others distinguish between the three, recognizing that they can carry similar yet distinct meanings. 

As we’ve covered, genderqueer often serves as an umbrella term, encompassing a range of non-cisgender identities.

Genderfluid and genderqueer are essentially different terms for the same identity. Some people might not feel comfortable with the word queer for the reasons discussed above so genderfluid is perhaps a better fit for them. It’s about what each person is most comfortable using although the meaning remains the same.

While the distinction between these identities might seem minimal, it's all about respecting and understanding someone on an individual basis, recognizing that just like the word queer, slight differences in terminology can hold significant meaning.

Respecting and supporting everyone’s gender identity, including their chosen name and pronouns, is how we can best help promote inclusivity and understanding.

Here we breakdown some of the differences between non-binary meanings and genderqueer meanings, but remember there is no hard and fast rule—terminology is as fluid as gender and sexuality!

Genderqueer is a term that has been in use for longer than non-binary which is a more recent term and has gained popularity as discussions around gender diversity and inclusion have evolved. It is often seen as a more neutral and inclusive term than genderqueer.

Genderqueer doesn’t define itself in relation to binaries as it is so all-encompassing (some genderqueer people may like show up as male or female occasionally or interchangeably, whereas non-binary literally means not identifying within the binary gender framework of male and female at all.

Some people might find the term genderqueer hard to understand. Non-binary is more straightforward, especially for those who are less familiar with gender diversity terminology.

The term began gaining visibility and recognition in LGBTQ+ communities in the late 20th century. It emerged as a way for individuals to describe their gender identities and expressions that did not conform to the traditional binary understanding of male and female.

Genderqueer was initially used to challenge and deconstruct traditional gender norms and roles. It represented an assertion of gender diversity and a rejection of societal expectations related to masculinity and femininity.

Genderqueer identities have been influenced by queer theory, which challenges the rigid boundaries of sexual orientation and gender. Queer theory paved the way for more nuanced discussions about gender identity and expression.

The use and understanding of the term genderqueer have evolved linguistically and culturally. It has been used to encompass a wide range of non-binary and gender-diverse experiences, including gender fluidity, agender identity (existing outside of the idea of gender entirely), bigender identity (identifying as two distinct genders, either simultaneously or at different times), and more.

Genderqueer people and activists have played a crucial role in advocating for gender diversity and inclusion within the LGBTQIA+ movement. They have worked to raise awareness and challenge discrimination based on gender identity.

In some regions, including legal recognition of gender identities beyond the binary has become an important issue. Advocates have fought for non-binary and genderqueer individuals to have the option to identify their gender on official documents in a way that accurately reflects their identity.

Today, the term genderqueer continues to evolve and expand in its usage. It represents a broader movement toward recognising and affirming the complexity and diversity of human gender experiences. While it may have originated as a more of a radical term, it now encompasses a wide range of gender identities and expressions, all united by a rejection of the traditional binary understanding of gender.

Many people may use both genderqueer and non-binary to describe their gender identity interchangeably. The most important aspect is to respect and use the terminology that individuals themselves prefer. There are various other gender identities within the non-binary and genderqueer umbrella, each with its own unique experiences and expressions of gender. Being open to learning and understanding the diverse range of gender identities is key to promoting inclusivity and respect for all individuals.