The Meaning Behind Agender Pins: Flags, Symbols, and Reasons People Display Them

The Meaning Behind Agender Pins

In recent years, pins have emerged as a popular way for members of the LGBTQ+ community to subtly display pride or signify their identity. One term that is becoming more widely known is "agender"—and agender pins are an increasingly common sight at Pride events, parades, or as part of everyday outfits.

But what exactly does it mean to be agender? And what do the various agender pins represent?

What Does Agender Mean?

Agender (also called genderless) is a term used to describe someone who does not identify with any gender. Those who are agender may feel that they have no gender at all, that their gender is neutral, or that they are in between genders. Essentially, agender individuals do not conform to the traditional male or female binary genders.

People who are agender may use they/them pronouns, although some use she/her or he/him. They typically dress and present themselves androgynously. And they often prefer gender-neutral language like "person" or "human" rather than "man" or "woman."

Agender Flag Colors and Meaning

Like many identities in the LGBTQ+ community, agender has its own pride flag. The agender flag consists of four horizontal stripes in the following colors:

• Black - the absence of gender
• Grey - being outside the gender binary
• White - neutral or undefined gender
• Green - the collective nature of all genders

Together, these colors represent the agender experience of having a gender identity that is neutral, undefined, or entirely outside of the concepts of man and woman.

Common Agender Pin Designs and Symbols

There are many different agender pin designs out there, but some common symbols and motifs include:

• The agender flag colors
• Infinity symbols - representing the unlimited nature of gender
• Circles or ovals split down the middle - half pink, half blue - showing a blend or absence of female/male
• Venus gender symbols combined with Mars gender symbols
• Yellow, white, purple, and black horizontal stripes (colors shared across various non-binary flags)
• They/them pronoun pins
• Creative symbols like dinosaurs, aliens, or unicorns to convey being outside the gender norms

Reasons People Wear Agender Pins

There are many reasons why someone may wear agender pins or display agender symbols:

• To openly express their agender identity - The pins serve as a visual cue that the wearer does not conform to binary gender norms.
• To find community - The pins help agender people recognize each other and connect.
• To educate others - The agender pride symbols spark discussion and raise awareness about what it means to be agender.
• For self-affirmation - Wearing agender symbols can instill pride, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
• To challenge gender stereotypes - Genderless pins buck the notion that everyone must fit neatly into male or female boxes.
• To prompt acceptance - Visible agender pride symbols encourage more open-mindedness around gender diversity.

Displaying Allyship with Agender Pins

You certainly don't have to be agender yourself to wear agender pins or display agender flags and symbols. Many allies of the LGBTQ+ community also choose to wear agender pins to:

• Signal that they are a safe, welcoming, and accepting person.
• Show support for agender friends, family members, or colleagues.
• Spread awareness about agender identities.
• Combat transphobia, binarism, and gender role expectations.

So next time you see someone rocking an agender pin, it could signify anything from their own personal gender identity, to pride in the agender community, to solidarity and allyship. No matter what, it's a meaningful symbol of breaking the gender binary!

FAQs

What are some common symbols used in agender pins?

Common agender symbols include the agender flag colors (black, grey, white, green), infinity signs, split circles mixing pink and blue, combined Venus & Mars symbols, and creative designs like dinosaurs or aliens.

Where can I buy agender pins and merchandise?

Many online stores sell agender pins, flags, apparel, and more, such as Etsy, Redbubble, and LookHuman. Pride shops and LGBTQ+ organizations are also good resources.

Is wearing an agender pin only for people who are agender?

Not at all! Allies who want to show support also commonly wear agender pins and symbols. Wearing agender pride gear is a welcoming sign of acceptance.

What agender pin should I get for my agender friend?

Think about their style and interests! An agender infinity symbol, pronoun pin, or creative agender flag accessory can make a thoughtful gift.

How can I be a good ally by wearing agender pins?

Wear them genuinely to signal safe space for agender folks. Speak up against transphobia when you can. Educate yourself on agender identities. Uplift agender voices and causes.