LGBT is an abbreviation for “lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.” The Q in LGBTQ can stand for either questioning (still exploring one’s sexuality) or queer, or sometimes both and it is sometimes written LGBTQQ. LGBTQ+ represents additional identities including intersex, asexual, pansexual and polyamorous. Other terms, including LGBTQIA and LGBTQQIA, sometimes with a * at …
An inaccurate term sometimes used to describe the lives of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. Sexual orientation may be part of a broader lifestyle but is not one in itself, just as there is no “straight” lifestyle. Avoid. See sexual orientation, sexual preference.
Term preferred by some individuals for a gay, lesbian, bisexual or heterosexual person’s sexual partner. Girlfriend, boyfriend and partner are alternatives.
Abbreviation for “men who have sex with men.” It is a behavioral and public health category, used in a medical or scientific context. Does not reference sexual identity and is not synonymous with gay and bisexual men. See down low.
Gender identities that don’t fit within the accepted binary of male and female. People can feel they are both, neither, or some mixture of the two.
When reporting survivors, list partners of gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender deceased in an order equivalent to spouses of heterosexual deceased.
As a modifier, openly is often relevant only when referencing historical figures and to allow for the possibility of previous closeted figures: Harvey Milk was the first openly gay San Francisco supervisor. Tammy Baldwin was the first openly lesbian member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Mention a subject’s sexual orientation only when relevant. Avoid …
A person who self-identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender in their personal, public, and/or professional lives. For example: Ricky Martin is an out pop star from Puerto Rico. Preferred to openly gay.
The act of publicly declaring (sometimes based on rumor and/or speculation) or revealing another person’s sexual orientation or gender identity without that person’s consent. Considered inappropriate by a large portion of the LGBT community. Publicly revealing the sexual orientation or gender identity of an individual who has chosen to keep that information private. Also a …
Having a fluid identity. Might be expressed as both male and female, or shift from one gender to the other. Falls under the umbrella term genderqueer.