What Does "Intersex" Mean?

Why understanding intersex issues is so important right now

Hi readers!

I hope you are doing well, or at least hanging in, finding support, and laughing when you can. Joanna Schroeder and I are doing some productive polishing work on our book Talk To Your Boys, which will be coming out on Sept. 9th. I CANNOT WAIT to share it with you. If you want a preview, please check out one of my upcoming events - I’ve linked to one at the end of this post.

Today, I’m sharing some words from intersex writers, who want you to better understand their experiences and use that knowledge to educate the young people in your life. I hope you will dedicate a few minutes of your day to hearing what they have to say.

Big love,
Christopher

---

---

An Open Letter to American Educators

From Eric K. Carr:

Last week I was asked to speak at the Marana School Board, where, after the president signed a sweeping and biologically false executive order about sex and gender, a teacher had been placed on leave for teaching about the existence of intersex students. I spoke about my experience as an intersex student in the 80s, and how a teacher saved my life by showing me the rich scientific and cultural record on variations in sex and gender. I let them know that teachers who counter public misinformation — even from the president — are heroes.

After the meeting, I was asked if I’d be willing to generalize my speech for a larger audience, and I’ve now been asked to make a statement at other districts in Arizona. After some reflection, I’ve decided to write an open letter to educators in the US, many of whom are in states that are quickly moving to ban any mention of intersex people because we, by our very existence, challenge the harmful myth that there is only male and female.

Here is that letter

Hans Lindahl. Photo by Maddie Moran.

InterSex Education

Hans Lindahl’s articles and videos about human sex diversity have been translated into multiple languages, and Hans’s words in support of policies for bodily autonomy appear in Wired, Buzzfeed, Teen Vogue, NBC, Out, and USA Today.

One of Hans’ latest projects is a terrific 3-part series on intersex issues for the website Scarleteen. Learn more about each of the parts below.

Could I Be Intersex?

Topics covered:

• How do I know if I’m intersex?

• Is intersex a medical condition?

• I’m trans. Can my doctor do chromosomal testing to see if I have an intersex variation?

How Do I Tell A Partner I'm Intersex?

If you’re on the fence about telling someone about your body, or feeling stuck on how to think about the conversation, here are 5 steps to guide you.

1. Get clearer about what you want.

2. Decide which pieces someone needs to know, and when.

3. Consider any risks.

4. Decide on the tone.

5. Give yourself talking points and resources.

How Can I Enjoy Sex as an Intersex Person?

Topics covered:

• How is sexuality different for intersex people?

• How can I feel more confident with sex as an intersex person?

• Understand more about your body’s own “yes” and “no.”

• Build a relationship with discomfort.

• Seek healing around shame and consent violations.

• Get in community with other intersex people.

• Seek help managing any physical issues.

• Remember that sex is all about exploration.

Please Join Me in Supporting Scarleteen

If you appreciate articles like the ones Hans wrote, please think about supporting Scarleteen with a one-time or a recurring donation. The site is wholly dedicated to providing comprehensive and highly inclusive sex and relationships education, information and support that centers young people.

---

Upcoming Events

• Raising Connected Boys in a Disconnected World
  I’m attending this in-person event in San Francisco on March 15. Expected speakers include Ashanti Branch, Ruth Whippman, Brendan Kwiatkowski and Judy Chu

• I'm Keynoting The Wonder Years Teacher Summit, And I Have The Discount Code

  Attend this a great online conference for only $25, and bring a friend for free!