Aren’t nonbinary genders just made up?
Well, sure, all words are. The entire concept of gender was made up to describe the societal norms of the sexes. Gender isn’t some inherent biological feature, but rather an abstract idea made up by sociologists. Similarly, “nonbinary” and surrounding terms have been made up to describe the many people who don’t fit into society’s expectations of what makes up men and women. In the end, these words are useful tools for describing the growing culture of gender nonconformity.

Why do nonbinary people need to label themselves anyways?
Labels are a difficult thing to explain to people who don’t need them. If you’re coming from a place of privilege, you may feel comfortable simply being yourself and not thinking about labels. However, it’s important to step back and try to imagine the perspectives of people who do need labels. Many nonbinary people are frowned upon by society, as people are constantly telling them how they should dress or act, it can be easy to feel broken or wrong simply because they are different. Labels can be incredibly empowering because they give social deviants a tool to connect to like-minded people. Within queer internet communities, nonbinary people are often to able to find comfort in knowing that they are not alone.

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What do nonbinary people want?
Not much, actually. Basic respect and kindness goes a long way, as well as referring to nonbinary people by their correct names and pronouns. As nonbinary gender expression becomes less taboo, the nonbinary community hopes to have broader representation, as well as more options when filling out a form asking for their gender. When in doubt, treat people as best you can, even if you don’t entirely understand their culture.

Where were all these nonbinary people 50 years ago?
The farther back in modern history we go, the stronger gender roles become. There have always been people who don’t connect to their assigned gender roles, but before the spread of the internet, it was very difficult (and dangerous) to find people who would accept non-conforming identities.

Are nonbinary people straight or gay?
Sexuality is entirely independent of a person’s gender, so a nonbinary person could have any sexuality at all, including straight or gay.