In Beyond The Gender Binary, Alok explains that moving beyond the gender binary helps us understand that there is a huge difference between what is normal, and what is forcibly normative. It is normal to be straight, gay, pansexual, non-binary, transgender, etc. We must remind ourselves that what we are taught growing up isn’t normal, we shouldn’t take gender and color code it with feelings and accessories to enhance masculinity and femininity. To move beyond the gender binary means inclusivity and acceptance. To make space for gender non-conforming people and transgender people, so that they feel safe and secure in their bodies. It is also to erase the notion that these people do not deserve basic human rights, and allow for positive publicity in mainstream media. I find Alok’s excerpt is similar to our last reading by Bell Hooks wherein she states “Let the movement begin again.” Alok’s points throughout the chapter stop us in our tracks with thoughts, questions, and statements people have in regard to non-binary, transgender, and gender overall. This allows for drastic change, for people to pursue a new thought process when learning about these topics.
I notice my gender identity when I dive into fashion. I love brands that argue gender and create beautiful pieces that anyone can put on and feel good when wearing. I also believe fashion is a huge part of binary norms, that girls should wear pink skirts and boys’ blue sneakers- but that is not what true fashion is all about. Fashion is complicated because it is used as a norm to define someone’s gender from birth- by putting a baby girl in a pink onesie. At the same time, people have the luxury of buying whatever they want to put on their bodies, thus breaking these norms and allowing room for new ideas and creativity. I find myself always running to the men’s section in thrift stores to find the perfect pair of baggy Levi’s, as well as big oversized t-shirts and flannels, because all of the items in the women’s section are tight-fitting, exposing, and uncomfortable. I do love tank tops, crop tops, and fitted pants, but I sometimes hate what the women section has to offer. I only wear dresses, skirts, and heels on special occasions because I don’t feel like it’s necessary to “dress like a girl”. I am a girl, wearing my favorite crewneck, Levi’s, and sneakers. I don’t need to prove that to anyone, and neither should someone who is non-binary.
Hello Olivia,
Reading “Beyond the Gender Norm” was insightful because Alok expressed that all that he is doing is simply educating us that there is a stark difference between what is believed to be normal versus what is forcibly normative. I am so glad that you bring up the world normal because I feel that even to this day in different contexts, “normal” is a word that is constantly used. The negative connotation associated with it will always remain because there is no definitive normal. Normal is relative, therefor it is nonsensical to look at another individual who is different to you and judge them.
I also think that its important that we recreate the status quo because that we have been taught needs to be unlearned, regarding gender binary.
Although I did not mention it, I also do believe that fashion is a place where my gender identity goes against the binary norm. Although you are right regarding fashion being a part of binary norms, I also believe that it is a great place to truly challenge gender norms and express ourselves.
Do you think that this is possible?
hey Olivia,
I found that reading your overall acknowledgment to gender binary as far as fashion goes was really intriguing yet very refreshing. The thought that fashion can definitely be considered as a way for any individual to express themselves was of course a thought that I’ve taken into consideration but as far as using fashion to almost speak entirely for their identity is something fascinating. Yet worth looking at in the light of general fairness.
Hi Olivia!
I love that you mentioned how fashion can be a tool that upholds harmful ideas but can also challenge them, as well. I love to express myself through fashion and I feel like it’s a great way to do it! However, because of a lot of preconceived notions, it’s likely that people will assume things about you just by the way that you dress. We need to move forward as a society and completely rid ourselves of these biases and assumptions that have been instilled in us since birth. Once we do that, things will be so much better for everyone.
I also find it interesting how fashion can play role in this too. Many girls wear something that boys usually wear that they will find comfortable and continue to like. Same things goes for men what I recognize that both men and women wear are nice purse’s That okay I guess because of gender Binary some questions this. Purses are for Women but who care if a Man wear it too. Ugg boots are another one they were made for Men …. women wear them the most but sometimes men still wear certain Ugg boots that woman most commonly wear, Some guy’s question because gender binary. If gender Binary was erased this wouldn’t matter, we would be more free Wear what ever.
Hi Olivia,
Fashion is quite interesting. It is a way to express ourselves but on the other hand, it also exists certain sexism about how different genders dress. I believe in most countries today, girls could wear pants and dresses or skirt but if boys wear dresses or skirt it would be a big news locally. Also think about many years ago, while women are only allowed to wear dresses and the first woman whom wore pants would be considered rebellious. Or even women who cutting their hair short could gain people’s attention a lot. Even today, I heard of straight couple argued while the woman would like to have short hair and her boyfriend would say to her like “but i like women with long hair” and trying to stop it. This kinda sexism in relationship need to be paying more attention too.