LGBTQ+ communities

Definition

The term "LGBTQ+" refers to a broad group of people identified by their sexual orientation or gender identity. It stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer/Questioning, with the "+" indicating inclusivity of all other sexual orientations and gender identities.

Analogy

Think of LGBTQ+ communities like a rainbow. Each color represents different identities within the community (lesbian, gay, bisexual etc.), but together they form one unified spectrum.

Related terms

Sexual Orientation: Refers to an enduring pattern of emotional, romantic and/or sexual attractions to men, women or both sexes.

Gender Identity: A person's internal sense of their own gender whether that is male, female or something else entirely.

Transgender: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from what is typically associated with the sex they were assigned at birth.