A Conversation On Breasts, Beards, And Binaries

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the author's experiences and perspectives as a non-binary transgender person navigating issues around their body, gender expression, and social perceptions. It explores topics such as binding, top surgery, social dysphoria, and the challenges of exercising and being in public spaces while not conforming to binary gender norms.

🙋 Q&A

[01] A Conversation on Breasts, Beards, and Binaries

1. What are the key issues the author discusses in this article?

• The author discusses their experiences as a non-binary transgender person, including:
  • Difficulties concealing their breasts without binding or wearing a bra
  • Reactions and assumptions from strangers about their gender based on their appearance
  • Feeling uncomfortable and unsafe being topless or wearing certain clothing in public
  • Avoiding certain activities like swimming or hot-tubbing due to concerns about how they would be perceived
  • Struggling to find ways to exercise and be physically active without causing distress over their body

2. How does the author feel about their breasts and the social perceptions around them?

• The author does not have an issue with their breasts personally, but experiences significant social dysphoria around them due to societal expectations and assumptions about gender and body parts
• They feel angry about living in a society that treats people differently based on their physical appearance and the amount of "fleshy tissue" on their chest
• The author is unwilling to undergo surgery to alter their body to fit in, as the source of their dysphoria is not their breasts but their reproductive system and genitals

3. What are the author's thoughts on the "Free the Nipple" movement and how it relates to their situation?

• The author believes that even if the "Free the Nipple" movement succeeds in granting top-freedom to women, it would not help their situation as a non-binary person
• As long as society continues to associate certain body parts with gender, the author will continue to experience dysphoria and discomfort in public spaces

[02] Navigating Exercise and Public Spaces

1. How does the author approach exercising and being in public spaces?

• The author tries to exercise early in the morning or in foggy conditions to avoid encountering many other people
• They feel distressed and physically ill when running in public while wearing clothing that reveals their breasts
• The author has avoided activities like swimming and hot-tubbing since their transition due to concerns about how they would be perceived

2. Why doesn't the author seek out a trans-friendly gym for their exercise needs?

• The author hates gyms and prefers to exercise outdoors, taking advantage of the mild climate and beautiful views where they live
• Running outside is the only exercise the author has been able to consistently stick to, and they see it as their "birthright as a human being"
• The author does not want to pay a monthly fee to share equipment and showers with strangers indoors

3. What is the author's perspective on the challenges of exercising and being in public spaces as a non-binary person?

• The author feels that they should be able to move their body freely and feel the sunlight on their bare skin without fear and distress
• They are frustrated that societal associations between body parts and gender prevent them from being able to do this comfortably and safely