Gender is the social presentation of how masculine or feminine a person feels. Woman and man are the gender markers in the United States. Sex is the biology of a person, whether they are female or male. This is determined by genitals and genetics. A person does not have to express their gender as dictated by their sex. For example, a person born a female (with a vagina) might feel like a boy and prefer to be called by masculine pronouns, like he and him. This person is defined as transgendered. Keep these definitions in mind while facilitating activities, being sensitive to each participants gender identity and expression.
Form two concentric circles with chairs. One gender sits in the middle, with the other on the outside. The inside group will talk about experiences as they relate to their gender. The facilitator may prompt the group with questions. Those on the outside get to hear the experiences, but should not respond immediately. The facilitator should debrief the conversation, gathering how the group is feeling, their reactions and thoughts. The discussion should help the two groups begin to empathize with each other. Strong communities are built around common identities and experiences. For example, the women's rights and suffrage movement was founded on the common experience of being a woman in the U.S. Groups must share how their gender has shaped their lives for others to understand.
In a group of people that identify as the same gender, create a list of challenges that the group faces due to their gender. List stereotypes you feel compelled to conform to or assumptions people often make about your skills and values due to your gender. For example, a group of men might feel frustrated that people always assume they know something about sports. These conversations can help groups exchange struggles, ideas and solutions when it comes to gender interactions.
Have students stand in a line in the middle of the room. Read statements that relate to gender and will indicate some level of power or oppression. If the statement correlates to more privilege in society, say "take a step forward." If the statement indicates a challenge or oppression in society, say "take a step back." For example, a statement could be "If you see presidents who are the same gender as you, take a step forward." The most privileged will be toward the front and the less privileged toward the back. Add in other identities as well, such as "If the majority of the presidents are the same race as you, take a step forward."