what does the plus mean in lgbtq ?

Introduction

The acronym LGBTQ+ is widely used to represent the community of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other non-heteronormative identities. However, the “plus” at the end of the acronym may not be as well understood. In this article, we will explore what the plus means in LGBTQ+ and why it is important for creating an inclusive environment for all individuals.

What is LGBTQ+?

LGBTQ+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and the “+” is intended to include other gender and sexual identities not represented by the first six letters. The acronym is used as an umbrella term to encompass the diverse range of gender and sexual identities that exist beyond the traditional binary of male and female, heterosexual and homosexual.

What Does the Plus Mean?

The plus in LGBTQ+ is intended to be inclusive of all gender and sexual identities that are not represented by the first six letters of the acronym.

This can include but is not limited to:

  • Asexual
  • Pansexual
  • Genderqueer
  • Non-binary
  • Two-spirit
  • Intersex
  • Androgynous
  • Demisexual
  • Polysexual
  • Omnisexual

By including the plus, the LGBTQ+ acronym recognizes that gender and sexual identities are complex and diverse, and that no single acronym can represent every individual’s unique experiences and identities.

Why is the Plus Important?

The plus is important for several reasons:

  1. Inclusion: The plus demonstrates that the LGBTQ+ community is committed to inclusivity and welcoming of all individuals, regardless of their gender or sexual identity.
  2. Visibility: The plus helps to raise visibility for lesser-known gender and sexual identities, such as asexual and two-spirit, and promote greater awareness and understanding of these identities.
  3. Evolution: The plus acknowledges that gender and sexual identities are not fixed and can evolve over time, and that the acronym must evolve as well to remain inclusive of new and emerging identities.

Conclusion

The LGBTQ+ acronym, which stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and the plus (+), is an inclusive term that represents a diverse range of gender and sexual identities. The plus in LGBTQ+ is important for creating an inclusive environment for all individuals, regardless of their gender or sexual identity. It recognizes that gender and sexual identities are complex and diverse and that the acronym must evolve to remain inclusive of new and emerging identities. By understanding the meaning and significance of the plus in LGBTQ+, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting society for all.

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