Started the morning with a group of 3rd graders at the Art Center for a theater production. They’re new to the space and to me. The following conversation about gender ensued:
Kiyani: Umm Miss, these boys are saying mean things about you.
Me: Oh yeah, what are they saying?
Kiyani: They’re saying that you’re a boy.
Me (to the group of girls that have now surrounded us): Do you think I’m a boy?
I took off my fitted and smiled at them. They paused.
Kiyani: No, you’re a girl.
Other girls: Yes, you’re a girl. No you’re a boy.
Me: Well it’s ok to not know and it’s ok to ask questions. I’m a girl. These are just the types of clothes I like to wear. My name is Gabby.
Kiyani: Hi, Miss Gabby. I’m Kiyani and I think those boys are just jealous cuz you’re clothes are mad nice. Um, J, I told you she was a girl.
J (little boy in similar clothing to me turns around): No you’re a boy. You look like Justin Bieber. You’re a boy.
Me: Thanks but hey, I’m a girl. Maybe some other people dressed like me might be boys or might not want to be a boy or a girl but thanks for saying I look like Justin Bieber.
J: You’re welcome.
Kiyani: See you can be whatever you want, J.
Me: Even Justin Bieber.
Done. Gender 101 to 3rd graders. It was an intense way to start the morning but was a fun and interesting conversation to have with kids. Especially since it was one they started and not something contrived to get them talking about gender. It’s weird for me because I don’t choose my clothes by what makes me look more male. I wear what I think looks good and makes me feel confident. Little kids say what they think and I respect that. More people should. Happy Friday. Who knew the Biebs would be such a crucial aspect of discussing gender presentation and identity?
