Navigating the landscapes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ topics can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially with the various terms and phrases that come into play. Whether you're an ally looking to better support your LGBTQ+ colleagues, an HR professional aiming to create an inclusive workspace, or someone within the LGBTQ+ spectrum seeking to articulate your experiences better, this glossary is designed for you. We recognize that language is a powerful tool—it can either divide us or unite us. Our aim is to empower everyone with the knowledge and understanding to engage in meaningful dialogues and contribute to an inclusive environment. In this glossary, we have attempted to explain important terms that relate to sexual orientation, gender identity, and diversity and inclusion efforts in an accessible way. We understand that identities and experiences are deeply personal and can differ greatly from person to person. Therefore, we've approached these definitions with sensitivity, open-mindedness, and a commitment to capturing the diversity of human experience. But remember, definitions can't capture the full essence of individual experiences, and the terms people use to describe themselves are as diverse as the individuals themselves. If you encounter a term that is new to you, we encourage you to explore its meaning and relevance with an open heart and mind. If you find that a term you identify with is missing or could be better explained, please know that this is a living document. We welcome your input to make this resource as comprehensive and inclusive as possible. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards fostering a more inclusive and accepting world. Your willingness to learn and grow brings us one step closer to that reality.
An individual who, although not a part of the LGBTQ+ community, actively supports and advocates for the community. Allies recognize their own privilege and strive to help facilitate acceptance, rights, and equal opportunities for LGBTQ+ individuals.
A sexual orientation where a person experiences little or no sexual attraction to others. Asexuality is a spectrum, and individuals may experience varying degrees of romantic or aesthetic attraction.
A sexual orientation where a person feels emotionally, romantic, or sexual attraction to people of both their own and other genders. Bisexuality is a fluid identity and is not limited to attraction to only men and women.
A term describing individuals whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. Recognizing cisgender privilege is essential in conversations about gender equality and discrimination.
The deeply personal and often challenging process of revealing one's sexual orientation or gender identity to oneself, close contacts, or the general public. It is a journey of self-discovery and public acknowledgment.
A sexual orientation characterized by only experiencing sexual attraction after forming a strong emotional connection with a person. Demisexuality is considered to be on the asexuality spectrum and is not dictated by gender.
The representation and active inclusion of individuals from various backgrounds, including but not limited to race, religion, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and gender. Diversity enriches environments by adding multiple perspectives and experiences.
The state or quality of being equal, especially in terms of opportunities and rights. Equality advocates for uniform opportunities but may not account for the nuanced needs of marginalized communities.
The commitment to providing different resources or approaches to ensure that individuals have equal opportunities to achieve similar outcomes, acknowledging that equal treatment doesn't necessarily lead to equal results.
A sexual orientation in which a person feels emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction exclusively to individuals of the same sex. The term is more commonly associated with men but can apply to anyone who identifies with this orientation.
A socially constructed classification of gender into two distinct forms—male and female. This system overlooks the fluidity and spectrum of human gender identities and can be limiting and damaging.
A medical term that describes the emotional and psychological distress arising from a mismatch between one's gender identity and the sex they were assigned at birth. Treatment options can include hormone therapy, surgery, and psychological counseling.
A gender identity or expression where a person's identification as a particular gender is not fixed and can change over time. Genderfluid people may or may not choose to express this fluidity outwardly.
An umbrella term that includes all gender identities that are not exclusively male or female. It can also be used as an individual identity for those who reject traditional gender categories.
The societal bias or assumption that considers heterosexuality as the default or "normal" sexual orientation. This perspective often marginalizes non-heterosexual orientations and can perpetuate stigma and discrimination.
A sexual orientation where an individual experiences emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to individuals of the opposite sex. Often considered the "norm" due to societal structures, leading to the concept of heteronormativity.
The irrational fear, hatred, or prejudice against individuals who identify as gay or lesbian. Homophobia manifests in a variety of ways, including derogatory language, discrimination, and even acts of violence.
The strategic and intentional practice of creating environments where any individual or group can feel welcomed, respected, and able to fully participate regardless of their background, identity, or status.
A framework for understanding how various social identities like race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status intersect and contribute to unique experiences of oppression or privilege.
A sexual orientation characterized by a woman's emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction exclusively to other women. Lesbianism is often viewed through its own cultural and social lenses, distinct from gay men or other LGBTQ+ identities.
An acronym representing Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer/Questioning, with the '+' indicating the inclusion of other sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions not specifically covered by these five terms.
Subtle, often unintentional, discriminatory comments or actions directed at members of marginalized groups. Though they may seem insignificant individually, they can accumulate to have a significant impact on mental health and well-being.
A gender identity that falls outside the traditional categories of male or female. Non-binary individuals may identify with aspects of both genders, neither, or define their gender in other terms.
A sexual orientation characterized by the potential for attraction to individuals regardless of their gender or gender identity. Pansexuals often describe themselves as being attracted to people based on personality rather than gender.
Unearned social and cultural advantages accorded by the formal and informal institutions of society to one group over another based on characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.
Words used in language to refer to people, replacing their name for convenience in conversation. In the context of gender, using someone’s correct pronouns is considered a basic level of respect for their identity.
An umbrella term used to describe a range of sexual orientations and gender identities that do not align with mainstream societal norms concerning gender and sexuality. The term has been reclaimed by many within the LGBTQ+ community.
The stage or process in which an individual is exploring their own sexual orientation or gender identity. It is a significant phase that may involve a lot of introspection and possibly some level of emotional and psychological turmoil.
A long-lasting pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attractions to men, women, both genders, neither gender, or another gender. Sexual orientation is considered one of the four components of sexuality, along with biological sex, gender identity, and social gender role.
A political and philosophical concept where justice is achieved through the equal distribution of opportunities, privileges, and resources within a society. It often involves movements to reduce or eliminate discrimination and establish equal opportunities for marginalized communities.
The practice of making only a symbolic effort to include individuals from minority groups. This is often done to give the appearance of diversity and inclusion without actually empowering those individuals.
A term used to describe individuals whose gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender people may choose to undergo medical or social transitions to better align their physical and/or social selves with their gender identity.
An irrational fear, hatred, or prejudice against individuals who identify as transgender or transsexual. Transphobia can manifest in subtle or overt ways, including discriminatory policies, harassment, and violence.
A term from Native American cultures that describes individuals who embody attributes of both male and female genders, or other gender roles within their cultures. It is a culturally specific term and should be used respectfully and only in appropriate contexts.
Implicit prejudices or stereotypes that individuals hold outside of their conscious awareness. These biases can manifest in discriminatory practices, social exclusion, and unequal treatment based on various identifiers such as race, gender, sexual orientation, etc.
A deep-seated and irrational fear or hatred of people from other countries or of that which is perceived to be foreign or strange. Xenophobia can manifest as discrimination, stereotyping, or violence against outsiders or foreign things.