Cisgender is a term used to describe individuals whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. In this article, we will explore what cisgender means, the history of the term, and the ways in which cisgender individuals can be allies to the LGBTQ+ community.

Defining Cisgender

Cisgender is a term that was coined in the 1990s as a way of describing individuals who identify with the gender they were assigned at birth. The term is derived from the Latin prefix “cis,” which means “on the same side as,” and is used to contrast with the term “trans,” which is used to describe individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.

Cisgender individuals may experience their gender identity in a variety of ways, and may express their gender in a range of different ways as well. Some cisgender individuals may be very traditional in their gender expression, while others may challenge gender norms in various ways.

The History of the Term “Cisgender”

The term “cisgender” was first used in academic circles in the 1990s. It was coined by German sexologist Volkmar Sigusch to describe people who are not transgender. Sigusch used the term “cissexual” to describe people whose bodies and gender identities match, and “transsexual” to describe people who feel the need to change their bodies to match their gender identity.

The term “cisgender” did not gain widespread usage until the 2000s, when it began to be used in academic and activist circles. The term filled a gap in the language, providing a concise and accurate way to describe people who are not transgender.

Prior to the use of the term “cisgender,” individuals who identified with the gender they were assigned at birth were often referred to simply as “normal,” which implied that individuals who did not identify with the gender they were assigned were somehow abnormal or deviant.

Since then, the term “cisgender” has become more widely recognized and accepted. It has been added to dictionaries, and it is increasingly used in popular culture.

Why is the Term “Cisgender” Important?

The term “cisgender” is important because it acknowledges that being transgender is not abnormal or deviant. It recognizes that there is a diversity of gender identities and expressions, and that being cisgender is simply one of many possibilities.

The term also helps to challenge the gender binary and the assumption that there are only two genders. By acknowledging that gender identity is not always tied to biological sex, the term “cisgender” helps to create space for people who identify outside of the binary.

Furthermore, the term “cisgender” helps to give voice to experiences of privilege. Cisgender people often take their gender identity for granted, and may not recognize the privilege that comes with being able to move through the world without fear of discrimination or violence based on their gender identity.

Being an Ally to the LGBTQ+ Community

As a cisgender individual, it is important to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community and to support the rights and well-being of transgender and nonbinary individuals. This can involve taking a number of different actions, including educating oneself about the experiences and perspectives of transgender and nonbinary individuals, speaking out against discrimination and prejudice, and advocating for policies and practices that are inclusive and supportive of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.

Cisgender individuals can also work to challenge gender norms and stereotypes in their own lives, and to create spaces and communities that are welcoming and inclusive of individuals of all gender identities. This can involve being mindful of language and terminology, creating opportunities for open and honest dialogue about gender and identity, and being an active and engaged member of the LGBTQ+ community.

What is the difference between cisgender and heterosexual?

Cisgender and heterosexual are two different terms that refer to different aspects of a person’s identity.

Cisgender refers to a person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. It is not related to a person’s sexual orientation.

Heterosexual, on the other hand, refers to a person who is romantically and sexually attracted to individuals of a different gender. It is related to a person’s sexual orientation, but not necessarily their gender identity.

Therefore, a cisgender person can identify as heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, or any other sexual orientation, depending on their individual attraction to other people. Similarly, a transgender person can also identify as heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, or any other sexual orientation, depending on their individual attraction to other people, regardless of their gender identity.

Conclusion

Cisgender is a term used to describe individuals whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. The term was created as a way of providing a neutral and non-stigmatizing way of describing individuals who identify with the gender they were assigned. As a cisgender individual, it is important to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community and to support the rights and well-being of transgender and nonbinary individuals. By educating ourselves, speaking out against discrimination, and creating inclusive spaces and communities, we can work towards a more just and equitable world for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.