International Non-Binary People's Day 2026

14 Jul 2026

Celebrating our non-binary community

Today is International Non-Binary People’s Day. It is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate people who identify as non-binary, to raise awareness of the barriers they may face, and to encourage thoughtful, practical allyship. We know that language about sex, gender and identity can be understood differently by different people. Our aim here is to support respectful communication, dignity and inclusion for everyone in our community.

What does non-binary mean?

Non-binary is an umbrella term used by some people whose gender identity does not sit solely or comfortably within the categories of woman or man. Some non-binary people may use terms such as gender-fluid, genderqueer or gender diverse; others may simply use non-binary. People’s language for themselves matters, and it is best to use the words a person uses for their own identity.

Non-binary people may or may not describe themselves as trans. For some, non-binary is connected to being trans because their gender identity differs from the sex recorded at birth; for others, trans is not a term they use. We do not need to resolve every wider debate about sex and gender in order to treat colleagues, students and visitors with courtesy, privacy and respect.

How can I be an ally for non-binary people?

• Introduce yourself with your name and, where appropriate, your pronouns – this can make it easier for people who wish to share pronouns to do so without being singled out. Avoid making pronoun sharing compulsory.
• If you wish to, include your pronouns in your email signature or profile – voluntary pronoun sharing can help reduce misgendering and signal openness. Some people may prefer not to share pronouns, and that choice should also be respected.
• Badges and stickers – if you are hosting a meeting, event or conference, you may wish to make pronoun badges or stickers available for visitors who want to use them. You can print your own using the pronoun badge design.
• Use inclusive, non-gendered language where it fits the context – for example, when addressing a mixed group, alternatives such as ‘everyone’, ‘colleagues’ or ‘students’ can be clearer and more inclusive than ‘ladies and gentlemen’. You can find out more (under policies) in our Inclusive Language Guide.
• Don’t assume – if you are unsure how to refer to someone, use their name, or ask politely and privately if it is relevant. In many situations, a person’s pronouns or gender identity will not need to be discussed.
• Keep learning and listening – non-binary people’s experiences are diverse. Seek out a range of respectful perspectives, listen to people’s lived experiences, and be open to learning without expecting individuals to educate others on demand. You can also read this article on ‘Being non-binary in the UK today’, which gives a personal account of being non-binary.
• Respect privacy – avoid intrusive questions about someone’s body, medical history, legal status, sex, gender identity or personal relationships. If a question is not necessary for the situation, and you think it may be intrusive or inappropriate then it probably is.

For more guidance on respectful and practical allyship:

• Book on to an Allies training session – these sessions run regularly and provide space to learn more about inclusion and allyship in practice.
• Speak to the EDI Team – if you have questions or would like advice on inclusive practice, the EDI team are happy to help. Our email is equalityanddiversity@manchester.ac.uk.