In this blog post, we’ll explore the challenges of nonbinary people of color as we navigate balancing corporate authenticity and conformity and provide guidance on achieving a harmonious balance.

The journey of non-binary individuals of color in the corporate world is a complex and delicate balancing act. On one hand, we seek to express our authentic selves, embracing our unique gender identities and cultural backgrounds. On the other hand, we often face the pressure to conform to corporate expectations and norms. My journey to authenticity and some level of conforming in the corporate world was a rough trial and error. I spent much of the first half of my corporate experience feminine presenting. Though I hated every second of it because it was uncomfortable and difficult to feel safe, I felt that was the only way to be taken seriously as a professional.

At the start of my corporate career, I was very much a token hire. I say that not to dismiss my experience, education, or abilities but because I was treated differently than my peers and colleagues. I knew that my blackness, gayness, and womanness made me less of a threat, and, at the time, the organization I worked for needed to curry favor with their most underrepresented, underpaid direct care workers. Additionally, their leadership team was very monochromatic and representative of the county and city, and as a nonprofit, they needed to show some diversity at the senior level. 

Every day, I code-switched, kept my opinions only to when I was asked directly, and disarmed those around me with humor to avoid offending them with intelligence. That human suit was uncomfortable and depressing, and it was after I forced myself into a gown and sparkly heels for a gala that I decided I no longer wanted that experience. The truth was that regardless of all my efforts to be accepted as part of the executive team, I would still be fighting daily to prove my value as a professional. In slacks or a dress, I was still black, gay, and female. Those factors were not changing. Rather than being stifled into a box that did not suit me, I decided to be as authentic as I could from that moment on.

The Challenges of Authenticity and Conformity:

It can be difficult not to compare oneself to those around you. It can be especially true when you are surrounded by people seemingly getting ahead, being seen, and given opportunities you’ve fought for. Non-binary individuals of color often face a series of challenges when navigating the intersection of their identities and corporate culture:

• Gender Expression: Expressing one’s gender identity authentically can be challenging in environments where traditional gender norms prevail. Non-binary individuals may feel compelled to present in ways that align with binary expectations.
• Racial Stereotypes: Stereotypes related to race can compound the pressure to conform. For example, non-binary individuals of color may feel compelled to “code-switch” to align with corporate perceptions of professionalism.
• Workplace Discrimination: Fear of discrimination or bias can lead to self-censorship. Non-binary individuals of color may withhold their authentic selves to avoid negative consequences.
• Mental Health Impact: The constant tension between authenticity and conformity can have a profound impact on mental health, contributing to stress, anxiety, and burnout.

If you’ve ever found yourself attempting to explain these complexities to someone who doesn’t understand, can’t resonate with, empathize, or worse, receives your perspective and chooses to minimize and mitigate, it can feel like a futile effort in self-preservation. However, as I did, and you will too, there comes a point when you become so comfortable in who you are, and how you present the concept of being or doing anything different seems alien.

Strategies for Achieving Balance:

Achieving a balance between authenticity and conformity in the corporate world is possible. First and foremost, coming to a point of commitment and confidence that you’ve made the right choice will help you become your most authentic self. Commit to the knowledge that whatever happens from the moment you show up as yourself, that is who you will be, consequences or not. Also, expect that there will be some confusion and meet it head-on with a stoic determination that you are standing firm in your experience. For me, one day, I was in kitten heels and formfitting blazers and the next in button-down shirts and bow-ties. 

But, it was more than what I was wearing that was different. It was how I felt. I was comfortable, strong, and honest with myself and others. I found my voice and didn’t wait to be invited to speak. I felt more aligned with the image of myself in my mind. Was it difficult? Yes. Did I have to set boundaries and not engage in unproductive or inappropriate conversations? Yes. Did it alienate me more in that environment? Also, yes. But when I left that role and went to another, did I show up 100% as who I am and wanted to be? Absolutely!

Incremental steps are better than none at all. Here are some strategies to help non-binary individuals of color navigate this complex terrain:

• Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your values, priorities, and what authenticity means to you. Understanding authenticity doesn’t mean complete non-conformity; it’s about being true to yourself while making informed choices.
• Set Boundaries: Define clear boundaries between your personal and professional life. Establish when and how you express your authentic self and when you adapt to corporate expectations. 
• Seek Supportive Allies: Identify and build relationships with allies within your organization. Allies can provide emotional support and help create a more inclusive workplace.
• Advocate for Change: Advocate for diversity and inclusion initiatives within your workplace. Encourage policies that embrace gender diversity and cultural inclusion.
• Mentorship: Seek mentorship from individuals who have successfully navigated the intersection of gender identity and race in the corporate world. Their guidance can be invaluable.
• Professional Development: Invest in professional development and skills that empower you. The more confident and competent you feel, the better positioned to assert your authentic self.
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Join or establish ERGs that specifically address the needs of non-binary individuals of color. These groups can provide a sense of community and support.
• Cultural Competency Training: Encourage your organization to offer cultural competency training to employees to foster a more inclusive environment.
• Advocate for Pronouns: Advocate for including gender-neutral pronouns in company communications and official documents.

Balancing authenticity and conformity in the corporate world as a non-binary person of color is a journey filled with challenges and opportunities. It can feel isolating and limiting. But remember that you are not alone in this journey; there is a growing movement towards more inclusive workplaces. Advocate for yourself and create a path that is wide and worn for you to walk. By self-reflecting, setting boundaries, seeking support, and advocating for change, you can navigate this complex terrain with authenticity and resilience, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive corporate culture for everyone.