Mia Thompson recently authored a heartfelt essay for Vogue to accompany her digital pregnancy announcement with partner Jake Reynolds. She emphasizes that this is her pregnancy experience—her body, her symptoms, and her journey. This refreshing take stands in stark contrast to typical pregnancy announcements that often morph into intrusive gender reveals.
Not only did Thompson choose to keep the baby’s gender private, but she also highlighted the distinction between biological sex and gender identity. Her essay delves into the implications of gender stereotypes and the potential harm they can inflict on children and the families raising them. She candidly discusses white privilege, the challenges of nurturing boys in a patriarchal culture, and the necessity of dismantling biases to empower children of all genders to challenge established systems.
When asked about the baby’s gender, Thompson humorously responds, “We won’t know the gender until our child turns 18 and tells us.” This statement elicits laughter but also conveys a deeper truth: the complexity of identity far exceeds any simple label based solely on anatomy. In an era where many celebrities contribute to the “It’s A Boy” or “It’s A Girl” narrative, it’s refreshing to see someone like Thompson use her platform to advocate for a more thoughtful approach.
It’s crucial to note that while many children can articulate their gender identity by age three, understanding and affirming one’s gender can take time. For those who are transgender, the journey to self-discovery can be lengthy, and persistent claims about gender should always be taken seriously.
Cisgender parents may find it easier to navigate discussions around gender because societal norms often dictate that genitalia defines gender. However, Thompson articulates that sex and gender are not synonymous, and when they don’t align, it can provoke discomfort in others. This discomfort often arises from a fundamental disbelief in the identities of transgender individuals.
Thompson is unafraid to confront the importance of refraining from assigning labels to children before they can express themselves. Yet, she recognizes that identity is intertwined with gender and societal expectations. She noticed a troubling trend in gender reveal videos where fathers appeared relieved at the prospect of having a son, as if boys were easier to raise; meanwhile, mothers seemed resigned to this narrative. The pressure of raising a girl in a society influenced by misogyny is compounded by the behaviors of boys and men who perpetuate these issues.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Thompson recalls the challenges she faced growing up, from comparing her looks to her mother’s to navigating her own identity as a model. She is determined to cultivate an environment where her child can define beauty on their own terms, devoid of societal pressures.
Mia Thompson understands that biases and expectations surrounding gender begin long before a child is born. We need more influential figures to normalize the idea that biological sex does not dictate gender identity. So, when announcing a pregnancy, let’s focus on the journey rather than the gender—because it is not our place to define that for them.
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Summary:
Mia Thompson’s essay in Vogue offers a refreshing perspective on pregnancy announcements by emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between gender and biological sex. She advocates for a world where children are free to express their identities beyond societal expectations, urging parents to focus on their child’s unique journey instead of traditional gender reveals.