Recently, the use of “Women’s+” has become increasingly common in activist spaces. In advocacy and health care spaces, terms like ‘women+’ or ‘non-men’ are often used to be more inclusive. While these terms intend solidarity, they can be imperfect solutions that also unintentionally limit or erase nonbinary identities. Recognizing these complexities helps us understand how inclusive language must continue to evolve to truly reflect and respect the experiences of all marginalized genders.
Advocacy and grassroots organizing have always drawn me in, especially when it comes to reproductive rights and equality. Since eighth grade, I have sought out protests, rallies, and town halls, driven by a desire to amplify my small voice with big ideas, even though opportunities like these were rare growing up in my home state of Nebraska. For me, these issues transcend so-called “traditional” gender categories. They affect people of all genders – because all of our struggles are connected, and our liberation is intertwined.
The fight for reproductive rights is about bodily autonomy, the right to decide what happens to one’s body without external coercion. This fundamental right also extends to nonbinary people, transgender men, intersex people, and other marginalized genders who face challenges accessing reproductive health care. For many in these communities, the lack of inclusive language and treatments in health care settings can be alienating. When a medical form asks for “women’s health history” but does not include nonbinary or transgender individuals, it can become an emotional and logistical barrier. It says that these spaces may not be safe or welcoming.
If people are unsure whether spaces – such as reproductive care facilities – are meant for them, or if they fear that their gender identity will not be respected, they may avoid those spaces altogether, missing out on essential care. Moving toward more inclusive language and care practices in reproductive services is crucial to ensuring that marginalized genders receive the care they deserve.
My journey as a nonbinary advocate in reproductive rights spaces has been one of learning, growth, and acceptance. I have come to terms with my identity despite the complexities, recognizing that people often do not perceive me as nonbinary – they see me as a woman or at least as someone who presents as female. This misperception is something I have learned to navigate, but it remains a reminder of the limitations of language and societal expectations.
It has taken a lot of internal struggle and self-discovery to reach a point where I no longer feel burdened by others’ perceptions. If people see me as a woman regardless of how I present myself, then I will fight for women, as these issues affect me too. Sharing solidarity with women allows me to contribute to a larger fight that impacts all of us.
I am proud to stand alongside women in this fight, but I also recognize the importance of including nonbinary perspectives. Including nonbinary individuals in the fight for reproductive rights is essential as our unique experiences add critical depth to the conversation and reveal how traditional gender norms harm everyone, regardless of identity.
Our voices add nuance and remind everyone that the fight for reproductive justice is bigger than any one label or identity. Including nonbinary perspectives enriches the movement and helps ensure that we are advocating for a future where all individuals have the autonomy and support they need.
As we move forward, I hope we can continue to build a strong movement that leaves no one behind, and we think about the roles each of us can play in making our communities more welcoming and inclusive – whether it is advocating for more inclusive language, supporting policies that benefit all marginalized genders, or simply listening to and amplifying voices that are often unheard.
The work of the National Partnership aims to dismantle these barriers, ensuring that reproductive health care is accessible to all. Understanding the intersection of gender and reproductive rights is crucial to the success of our movement.
Together, with the work of organizations like the National Partnership, we can fight for a truly equitable future in reproductive rights, where everyone – regardless of gender identity – has the autonomy and support they need. Only by intentionally including all voices can we dismantle barriers and make reproductive health, rights, and justice inclusive for every identity.
