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Buddhism Quote by Rita M. Gross

“If one does not make an ego out of gender, one would still know whether one is a man or a woman, gay, straight, bisexual, transgender—whatever else we may think of. But those identities need to fit very loosely and be worn very lightly. All sense of privilege or deprivation that has developed…” quote by Rita M. Gross
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““If one does not make an ego out of gender, one would still know whether one is a man or a woman, gay, straight, bisexual, transgender—whatever else we may think of. But those identities need to fit very loosely and be worn very lightly. All sense of privilege or deprivation that has developed around one’s gender identity, all rigidity regarding proper roles and behaviors for the various genders, must be cut through.””

Rita M. Gross

About This Quote

Source Essay: Gender Fluidity and Social Constructs, 2020

Gender identities should be flexible, lightly embraced, and free from rigid roles and privileges.

In simple terms: Gender should be fluid and unburdened.

Key Takeaway

Adopt a flexible, respectful view of gender.

Themes

gender identity privilege social norms fluidity

Mood

thoughtful empowering critical

Type

essay activist philosophical

When to use this quote

  • workplace policies
  • education curricula
  • media representation
  • personal relationships
  • activism

Key Concepts

intersectionality social justice personal freedom cultural critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would happen if gender roles were completely fluid?
  • How can we dismantle gender privilege in daily life?
A Different Perspective

Rigid gender expectations can cause oppression.

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