The transgender community and broader LGBTQ+ culture are defined by a rich diversity of identities, a shared history of resilience, and an evolving language aimed at authenticity and respect.
Understanding the community begins with distinguishing between different aspects of identity. Terminology is constantly evolving, and the most respectful practice is to follow the language an individual uses for themselves.
: Gender identity is a person's internal sense of being male, female, or another gender. Gender expression is how they present that identity to the world through clothing, behavior, or appearance.
: An identity that does not fit exclusively into the categories of "man" or "woman".
: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
: This refers to who a person is attracted to (e.g., lesbian, gay, bisexual, pansexual). It is independent of their gender identity. Best Practices for Allyship and Communication
: A person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.
Being a supportive ally involves intentional actions to create inclusive environments.