July 14 – International Non-Binary Day
International days are opportunities to raise awareness about important social issues, strengthening knowledge, acceptance and political will around issues that concern the global community. On July 14, we celebrate International Non-Binary People’s Day , a day dedicated to those who do not fit into the traditional binary of “man or woman”.
The day was established in 2012 by Canadian activist Katie van Loon , with the aim of recognizing and honoring people who identify outside of the gender binary – as asexual, bisexual, intersex, gender fluid, or third gender. These identities are often placed under the umbrella term genderqueer , which predates the term non-binary .
What does “non-binary” mean?
The traditional binary model of gender is based on the assumption that there are only two genders – male and female – that are directly related to biological sex. However, the human experience of gender is much more complex and diverse . Many societies, both historical and contemporary, recognize roles beyond this dichotomy – from the sworn virgins of Albania to the “two-spirit” individuals of Native American cultures .
Pride in all colors
Non-binary identities are celebrated with colorful pride flags , such as:
- The yellow, white, purple and black flag of non-binary people,
- The lilac, white and chartreuse flag of gender diversity,
- As well as flags for gender fluid, gender agnostic, and intersex people.
Difficulties & Discrimination
Despite increasing visibility, non-binary individuals continue to face social stigma, legal invisibility, and verbal or institutional violence . Most states do not legally recognize non-binary genders, leaving individuals forced to choose between “male” or “female” on official documents. In addition, they often face mischaracterization, violation of their identity , and lack of respect .
Why July 14?
The date is no coincidence: it falls right between Women’s Day (March 8) and Men’s Day (November 19) . It is a reminder that there are other identities between feminine and masculine, equally valid and important.
