Nonbinary People’s Day: Visibility, Understanding, and Pride
By Gus Hernandez
Monday, July 14, marks International Nonbinary People’s Day, the start of Nonbinary Awareness Week, and the kickoff to San Diego Pride Week. It’s a moment of intersection of identity, visibility, and celebration and an opportunity to learn about our nonbinary community members.
Nonbinary is an umbrella term for someone whose gender identity is not man or woman. Nonbinary people may identify as both, neither, somewhere in between, or as a different gender entirely. Some may use terms like genderqueer, agender, bigender, or genderfluid to describe their experience.
Nonbinary identity is not new. Cultures around the world have recognized more than two genders for centuries. What is new is the growing visibility and recognition of nonbinary people in mainstream conversations about gender and identity.
Trying to adhere to a gender binary ignores the diversity of humanity. Humans have never fit perfectly into neat categories! Our assigned sex at birth does not determine the authenticity of our lives.
Nonbinary People’s Rights Are Under Attack
This year’s Nonbinary Awareness Week arrives in the shadow of escalating attacks on the rights of transgender and nonbinary people across the country. The Trump administration has continued to push anti-trans policies that restrict access to healthcare, education, and public life. These attacks affect trans and nonbinary individuals who are frequently excluded from legal protections, misgendered in healthcare settings, and denied access to healthcare that affirms their gender identity. Many nonbinary people face discrimination at work, in housing, and in public spaces. And yet, their resilience and brilliance continue to shine through.
That’s why Nonbinary Awareness Week is so important. It’s a chance to educate ourselves, challenge our assumptions, and expand our understanding of gender beyond the binary. It’s a time to listen to nonbinary voices, honor their experiences, and commit to creating spaces where they feel seen, safe, and celebrated.
Nonbinary Support and Discussion Groups at The Center
The Center offers dedicated spaces for trans and nonbinary people to connect, share, and thrive. These groups are facilitated by and for community members and provide vital support and affirmation:
Black Trans & Nonbinary Group — A space for Black transgender and nonbinary individuals to build community and share experiences. Meets the first and third Thursday from 6:15–7:45 p.m., including July 18 during Nonbinary Awareness Week.
Transgender and Nonbinary Coming Out Group — A supportive space for those exploring or affirming their gender identity. Meets every Monday evening, and will meet in person on International Nonbinary People’s Day on July 14.
https://thecentersd.org/events/transgender-nonbinary-coming-out-group-in-perso
Transgender & Nonbinary Discussion Group — An in-person group for transgender and nonbinary folks to connect and support one another. Meets on July 18, from 6–7:30 p.m. during Nonbinary Awareness Week. https://thecentersd.org/events/transgender-nonbinary-group/
PACT: Parents & Caregivers of Trans/Nonbinary Family Members — A support group for parents and caregivers. Meets every first Thursday of the month, 5–6 p.m.
These groups are part of our ongoing commitment to creating affirming, inclusive spaces where nonbinary people can be their full, authentic selves.
Being an ally to nonbinary people starts with respect and curiosity. Here are a few ways to show up:
Use inclusive language. Ask people what pronouns they use and use those pronouns. Avoid assuming someone’s gender based on appearance.
Educate yourself. Read books, watch videos, and follow nonbinary creators who share their stories and insights.
Speak up. If you hear someone misgendering or dismissing a nonbinary person, say something. Silence is complicity.
Support nonbinary-led work. Whether it’s art, activism, or community organizing, nonbinary people are leading powerful movements for change.
Join Us for a Celebration at The Center
To mark this important day, The Center will host a Nonbinary People’s Day Celebration on Monday, July 14, featuring special guest speakers. This gathering is a space for connection, learning, and joy. Whether you identify as nonbinary, are questioning your gender, or simply want to show your support, we invite you to join us. Together, we’ll build community, share stories, and celebrate the beauty and diversity of nonbinary lives.
Learn more about Nonbinary Awareness Week at The Center: https://thecentersd.org/nonbinary-week/
As we step into San Diego Pride Week, let’s remember that nonbinary people have always been part of our movement, and they deserve to be front and center in our fight for justice and liberation.
This July, let’s raise our voices for nonbinary visibility. Let’s challenge the binary. Let’s celebrate the full spectrum of who we are.
Happy Nonbinary Awareness Week, and Happy San Diego Pride!