How We View Sex and Gender

Recent headlines have been consumed with the Federal Government’s consideration of clearly defining gender. The US Department of Health and Human Services would like to define gender “on a basis that is clear, grounded in science, objective and administrable.” This definition would consider gender on the same basis as it considers someone’s sex.

At JWFNY we view sex and gender as different. We see sex as a biological construct. Gender on the other hand, we view as a social construct that can differ depending on the community, place and time. In every decision we make, we strive to utilize a gender lens. This means we look at how gender influences people’s needs and experiences, causes differing outcomes, and associates with various assumptions and norms.

JWFNY is a proud member of Philanthropy New York’s Funders for Gender Equity. They created the below info-graphic, which looks at gender, gender norms, and gender expression. Read below for tips on how to conduct a gender analysis: