Beyond the Gender Binary

by Alok Vaid-Menon

The scrutiny on our bodies distracts us from what’s really going on here: control. The emphasis on our appearance distracts us from the real focus: power.

I learned about gender through shame. In so many ways, they became inseparable for me.

What we look like isn’t gross; what is truly disgusting is how we shame one another for our physical appearances.

Others will project their insecurity on you because it is easier than dealing with their internal pain.

Pain does not have to be visible to be real, and violence does not have to be physical to be serious.