What is lgbtq+

LGBTQ+ is an evolving acronym representing a diverse spectrum of sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. At its core, LGBTQ+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (or Questioning), with the "+" symbol crucially acknowledging the many additional identities that exist beyond these five categories. This inclusive term represents not just labels, but real people, communities, and experiences that have historically been marginalized.

Understanding LGBTQ+ isn't just about memorizing definitions it's about recognizing human diversity, fostering empathy, and building a more inclusive world. As society's understanding of identity deepens, so too does the language we use to describe it, making ongoing education essential for allies and community members alike.

Breaking Down the Acronym: What Each Letter Represents

L: Lesbian

A lesbian is a woman who experiences emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction primarily to other women. The term is used both as a noun and adjective (as in "lesbian woman").

G: Gay

Most commonly referring to a man attracted to other men, "gay" can also be used broadly to describe anyone who experiences same-gender attraction. Many women also identify as gay rather than lesbian, highlighting the personal nature of identity labels.

B: Bisexual

Bisexual individuals experience attraction to more than one gender. This attraction isn't necessarily equally split between genders and can fluctuate over time what's often called the "bi-cycle." Importantly, bisexuality is not a transitional identity or a form of indecision, but a valid and complete orientation in itself.

T: Transgender

Transgender (often shortened to "trans") describes people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. This is distinct from sexual orientation a trans person can be straight, gay, bisexual, or any other orientation. Key related terms include:

Cisgender: Individuals whose gender identity aligns with their assigned sex

Non-binary: People who don't identify exclusively as male or female

Gender dysphoria: Distress that can occur when someone's assigned sex and gender identity don't align

Q: Queer or Questioning

Queer: Once used as a slur, this term has been reclaimed by many as an umbrella term for non-heterosexual and non-cisgender identities. Some prefer "queer" for its flexibility, while others still find it offensive, so it's best to use only when someone self-identifies with it.

Questioning: The process of exploring one's sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.

The Vital "+": Beyond the Initialism

The plus sign is perhaps the most important character in the acronym, representing the countless identities not captured in the five letters:

Intersex: People born with variations in sex characteristics that don't fit typical binary notions

Asexual/Aromantic: Those who experience little or no sexual/romantic attraction

Pansexual: Attraction regardless of gender

Two-Spirit: A term used by some Indigenous North Americans for people with both masculine and feminine spirits

And many more, including genderfluid, agender, demisexual, and others

The Evolution of Language: From LGBT to LGBTQ+

The terminology has expanded significantly over decades, reflecting growing understanding:

1960s-1970s: "Gay" served as an umbrella term

1980s: "Gay and lesbian" became more common

1990s: LGBT gained prominence, acknowledging bisexual and transgender communities

2000s: LGBTQ added to include queer/questioning identities

2010s-present: LGBTQ+ (or sometimes LGBTQIA+) emphasizes inclusion of all identities

This evolution matters because language shapes reality. As activist Leslie Feinberg noted, "Pronouns are the only thing in the English language that indicate who you are rather than what you do." Respecting someone's stated identity is a fundamental form of human dignity.

Common Misconceptions Debunked

"It's Just a Phase"

Sexual orientation and gender identity are deeply rooted aspects of personhood. While understanding oneself can be a journey, identities within the LGBTQ+ spectrum are as valid and stable as straight and cisgender identities.

"Transgender is the Same as Sexual Orientation"

Gender identity (who you are) and sexual orientation (who you're attracted to) are separate dimensions of human experience. A trans woman who's attracted to men is straight; one attracted to women is lesbian.

"They're Trying to 'Recruit' People"

This harmful myth suggests LGBTQ+ identities are choices that can be influenced. In reality, people don't choose their orientations or identities they discover them.

"It's a Modern Western Concept"

Historical and cross-cultural evidence shows LGBTQ+ identities have existed throughout human history and across all cultures, from Two-Spirit people in Indigenous communities to the "galli" priests of ancient Rome.

Why LGBTQ+ Visibility Matters

Representation saves lives. According to The Trevor Project's 2022 National Survey:

LGBTQ+ youth who felt high social support reported significantly lower suicide attempts

45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year

Transgender and nonbinary youth who reported gender identity acceptance had significantly lower suicide risk

Visibility in media, politics, workplaces, and communities creates a world where LGBTQ+ people can live authentically without fear. It also educates the broader population, replacing fear and misunderstanding with knowledge and empathy.

How to Be an Ally: Practical Steps

Educate Yourself: Read articles, watch documentaries, follow LGBTQ+ creators

Use Correct Language: Respect names and pronouns when in doubt, ask politely

Speak Up: Gently correct misinformation when you encounter it

Support LGBTQ+ Organizations: Donate, volunteer, or amplify their work

Examine Your Assumptions: Question heteronormative and cisnormative thinking

Listen More Than You Speak: Center LGBTQ+ voices in conversations about their experiences

The Ongoing Journey

Understanding LGBTQ+ isn't about achieving perfect terminology mastery it's about recognizing human complexity and committing to respect. Language will continue evolving as our understanding deepens, and what matters most is approaching each person with curiosity rather than assumption, and dignity rather than judgment.

The rainbow flag, created by Gilbert Baker in 1978, represents this diversity beautifully: red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, blue for harmony, and violet for spirit. These are universal human experiences that LGBTQ+ people share with all humanity, while also having unique experiences shaped by their identities.

Moving Forward Together

The journey toward full equality continues worldwide. As of 2023, 64 countries still criminalize same-sex relationships, while others have made remarkable progress in LGBTQ+ rights. Each of us has a role in creating a world where people can love authentically and live openly without fear.

Whether you're exploring your identity, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking to understand, remember that at its heart, LGBTQ+ represents what we all seek: the freedom to be ourselves, to love who we love, and to build communities where everyone belongs.

The "+" isn't just a symbol it's an invitation. An invitation to expand our understanding, to include more stories, and to recognize that human diversity will always exceed our language's ability to categorize it. And that's not a limitation it's a beautiful reminder of our shared, wonderfully complex humanity.