Raised Without Gender

Summary

This script explores gender norms in Sweden through the lens of a family raising their children without gender binary constraints. The family uses gender-neutral language, avoids gendered toys and clothing, and encourages free expression. The video delves into the impact of this approach on the children, societal reactions, and debates surrounding gender-neutral education. It highlights the progressive Swedish kindergartens and the challenges faced by gender-nonconforming individuals, offering a nuanced view of a society in transition.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Sweden is recognized globally for its progressive views on gender, with the use of the gender-neutral pronoun 'hen' being common among Swedes.
• 🏡 The family in Örebro, Sweden, aims to raise their children free from gender norms, avoiding gendered toys, colors, and clothing to allow their children to express themselves freely.
• 👦👧 Both of Del's children, Mika and Niko, were assigned male at birth, but their family does not let their sex assignment dictate their gender identity, supporting a fluid expression of gender.
• 👗 Mika's preference for wearing dresses and having long hair often leads people to perceive them as female, but the family does not correct these assumptions, aligning with Swedish gender-neutral values.
• 📚 The Swedish Government School Plan, in place since 1998, prohibits the enforcement of gender stereotypes in education, promoting an environment that is open to diverse gender expressions.
• 🏫 Egalia, the first gender-neutral kindergarten in Sweden, emphasizes democracy and anti-discrimination, allowing children to express their identities without the constraints of traditional gender roles.
• 🤔 Despite progressive policies, there is criticism of Sweden's approach to gender in education, with some arguing that it overlooks biological sex differences and may be detrimental to boys.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 Del, an intersex individual, and their family navigate public spaces with resilience, sometimes facing stares and judgments due to their non-conforming appearance.
• 👶 The children's understanding of gender is still developing, as seen in their interactions and questions about gender roles and expressions among their peers.
• 🏢 As Mika prepares to transition to a new school, Del is proactive in ensuring the educational environment will be understanding and supportive of their gender expression.
• 🌈 The script highlights the ongoing conversation and evolving understanding of gender in Sweden, with a focus on individual expression over traditional norms.

Q & A

What is the gender-neutral pronoun 'hen' and why is it significant in Sweden?

The pronoun 'hen' is a gender-neutral term used in Sweden, reflecting the country's progressive stance on gender identity. It is significant as it allows individuals to be referred to without being assigned a specific gender, which aligns with the country's efforts to challenge traditional gender norms.

What is the controversy surrounding government-funded gender-neutral kindergartens in Sweden?

The controversy stems from the perception that these kindergartens are attempting to erase traditional gender roles and identities. Critics argue that this approach could be confusing for children and may not align with the natural development of gender identity.

How does the family in Örebro approach raising their children without gender norms?

The family avoids gendering toys, colors, and clothing, allowing their children to explore their interests freely without being constrained by societal expectations of what is appropriate for their assigned sex at birth.

What is the role of Del in the family and their perspective on gendering?

Del is an American photographer and a parent in the family. They are intersex and identify as non-binary, using 'mapa' as a term of endearment. Del shares the family's values that gendering is harmful and supports raising the children free from gender norms.

How does the family handle situations where others may assume a gender for their children based on appearance?

The family does not correct people who assume a gender for their children. They allow their children to be referred to by various pronouns, including 'she' or the gender-neutral 'hen' in Swedish.

What is the Swedish Government School Plan's stance on enforcing gender stereotypes?

The Swedish Government School Plan, established in 1998, forbids enforcing gender stereotypes in educational settings, promoting an environment where children can explore their identities without being confined by traditional gender roles.

How does the kindergarten teacher Johanna approach questions about a child's gender?

Johanna does not impose a gender identity on children. She allows them to express their gender as they feel comfortable, avoiding direct answers to questions about a child's gender to prevent reinforcing stereotypes.

What is the criticism against the Swedish approach to gender-neutral education by Dr. Eberhard?

Dr. Eberhard criticizes the approach as damaging, arguing that it is a brainwashing strategy that erases sex differences and leads to problems for boys in particular, such as lower academic performance and higher suicide rates.

How do the children at Mika's kindergarten perceive gender and their peers?

The children seem to have a more fluid understanding of gender, not necessarily adhering to traditional binary concepts. They are open to playing with children of different gender expressions and do not appear to be limited by gender stereotypes in their play.

What challenges does Del face as a gender-non-conforming individual in public spaces?

Del experiences stares and judgment from others due to their gender-non-conforming appearance. They describe feeling like a micro-activist when they go out in public, challenging societal norms and expectations.

How does the family plan to navigate the transition from kindergarten to a more traditional school environment?

The family seeks out progressive schools that align with their values, such as Steiner schools, which focus on creativity and playing without imposing gender norms. They also prepare to educate other parents about their family's unique structure and values.