Ep 3. Can We Say Bye-Bye to the Binary?
- January 28, 2022
Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness Season 1 Episode 3: Can We Say Bye-Bye to the Binary?
In this episode of "Getting Curious with Jonathan Van Ness," Jonathan explores the concept of gender beyond the binary of male and female. He talks to Dr. Z Nicolazzo, a transgender scholar and activist, who is an assistant professor of Trans Studies in Education at Northern Illinois University.
Jonathan starts by asking Dr. Nicolazzo to explain what the gender binary is and why it's limiting. They discuss how the gender binary reinforces social norms and stereotypes that can be harmful to people who don't fit into the categories of male or female. They also talk about how some cultures have acknowledged and even celebrated more than two genders throughout history.
Jonathan and Dr. Nicolazzo dive into the differences between sex and gender, and how they're often confused or conflated. They talk about how our understanding and acceptance of non-binary gender identities is evolving, and how language and pronouns play a crucial role in respecting people's identities.
Jonathan shares his own journey of learning about gender identity and how he's come to understand and embrace the idea of gender beyond the binary. Dr. Nicolazzo provides insight into the experiences of transgender and non-binary people, and how we can all be more supportive and inclusive.
The episode ends with Dr. Nicolazzo offering resources for further education and activism, and advocating for the importance of empathy and kindness in our interactions with others.
Overall, "Can We Say Bye-Bye to the Binary?" is a thought-provoking and informative conversation that challenges viewers to think critically about gender and the need for a more inclusive and accepting society.
