Gender configures our lives in its most fundamental ways. It transforms everything from the activities we enjoy and the behaviours we are encouraged to display, and the responsibilities we undertake as adults. The multiple identities that young people navigate through, sexual orientation and gender identity are amongst them. An alternative view on ‘gender’ has come into focus with Generation Z, being called the ‘gender fluid generation’.
The acronym LGBT is used to describe the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. Some days a woman may wake up feeling feminine and put on a dress or lipstick. But on others, she may feel much more masculine. Gender fluidity may be a way to explore gender before landing on a more stable expression. Challenges with solidifying aspects of one's identity can contribute to poor physical and mental health outcomes.
But public acceptance is increasing, even in culturally conservative countries, though most of the countries have experienced drastic changes in accepting LGBTQ community, the South Asian countries mark a standout exception. Nepal was ranked 10 in criteria of acceptance from 2014-2017. Rainbow flags and posters with the colourful motif are displayed out in public, business diversity meets, and parties every year in the month of June, popularly known as the pride month. We see them taking the opportunity to share, network and support each other which is really heart-warming.
This is what we must do now: we must focus not on falling in love with others, but on learning to love ourselves as we become more equal. Because no matter how many rights we gain, the tragedies keep coming. Acknowledging and accommodating gender fluidity is about so much more than adding a third check box option to standard forms but building and sustaining a society in which feeling a sense of belonging is the real deal.
BY:
Mehak Khurana
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