Bigender: Definition, Understanding, and Respect for Bigender Identities

What is Bigender?

The term “bigender” describes a person whose gender identity encompasses two distinct genders. These two genders can be any combination, such as man and woman, man and non-binary, woman and non-binary, or two different non-binary identities. The bigender experience is unique to each individual and can manifest in various ways.

How does Bigender identity manifest?

For a bigender person, the gender experience can involve:

Simultaneity of genders

Experiencing both genders at the same time, as if they coexisted permanently.

Alternation of genders

Switching between the two genders, where one gender is predominant at certain times and the other at others. This can be influenced by context, mood, or other factors.

Variable gender expression

Gender expression can vary depending on the gender felt at a given time. For example, a bigender person may dress more masculinely one day and more femininely another, or adopt manners and behaviors associated with one or the other gender.

Fluidity within bigender

Although bigender involves two specific genders, the experience of these genders can be fluid, with different intensities or expressions over time.

Key Distinctions: Bigender, Non-binary, Genderfluid, and Transgender

It is important to distinguish bigender from other gender identities:

Bigender vs Non-binary

Bigender is a form of non-binary identity, as it is not limited to the male/female binary. However, not all non-binary people are bigender.

Bigender vs Genderfluid

A genderfluid person may experience a wider range of genders, or a more constant fluidity between many genders, while a bigender person focuses specifically on two genders.

Bigender and Transgender identity

A bigender person is transgender if their gender identity does not match the gender assigned to them at birth.

Respect and Prevention: The Importance of Inclusion

Recognizing and respecting bigender people is essential to creating an inclusive environment. This involves:

Pronouns and respectful communication

Always ask the person what pronouns they prefer. A bigender person may use different pronouns depending on the gender they feel at a given time (for example, she/he, he/she, or neutral pronouns like they/them).

Avoiding stereotypes and validating identity

Accept and respect their gender identity as they define it, without questioning or minimizing it. Do not make assumptions about a bigender person’s expression or behavior based on their identity.

Educating others

Help raise awareness and educate those around you about diverse gender identities, including bigender.

Bigender identity is a rich and complex expression of human diversity. By understanding and respecting these experiences, we contribute to a more inclusive and welcoming world for all.