July 14 is International Non-Binary People’s Day, a special time to honour and support people whose gender identity isn’t defined by the socialised options of male or female. Some non-binary people feel like a mix of both genders, while others don’t feel like they fit into those labels at all. Being non-binary simply means a person knows who they are.
Non-binary people show strength every day just by being themselves; it reminds us all that knowing your identity is powerful. This day is a reminder to celebrate the unique value of non-binary people and to stand up alongside them in the fight for their rights It’s not just about pride; it’s about making sure everyone is treated fairly and kept safe from harm.
Non-binary people still face unfair treatment and abuse. This can happen at work, in public places, and even in their own relationships. Hurtful comments, harassment, and being made to feel “less than” are problems non-binary folks deal with far too often.
In personal relationships, abuse can be harder to spot, especially when the person who is supposed to love and support you is the one causing harm. The abusive partner can say or do things like:
- “At least I treat you better than people on the street do.”
- “No one else will love you like I do. You are lucky I am with you”
- “Don’t be too ‘out there’ when we go out—it’s for your own safety.”
- “You should just dress more male or female. Pick one”
- Blocking their ability to update their gender markers or update names on documents
- Forcing sex acts to make them feel more like a “real man/woman”
- Disrespecting their physical boundaries and insisting on touching bodily parts that make them feel uncomfortable
These behaviours can be red flags a person is experiencing Intimate Partner Violence. No one should feel unsafe, unloved, or like they have to hide who they are just to keep someone else happy. Everyone deserves a relationship built on respect and kindness. You don’t have to earn respect, it should be given freely, just for being you. If this sounds like something you or someone you care about is going through, you are not alone.
Help is available.
Contact Engender Equality
Email: admin@engenderequality.org.au
Phone: (03) 6278 9090
