This acronym started as simply LGB, which stood for Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual, and began to replace the word “gay” in the mid 80’s, meant to include the larger non-straight or non-cisgender community. In the 90’s, the letter T was added to include transgender persons. This has continued to evolve over time, including variants such as LGBTTQQIAAP and QUILTBAG, but the form we’re using here, LGBTQIA+, is widely used and recognized today.
One criticism of LGBTTQQIAAP is that it’s too long. Another is that, in trying to include everyone, some are unavoidably excluded. And that is where the “+” comes in.
The “+” in LGBTQIA+ can include but is certainly not limited to the following:
- Ally
An ally is a cis-straight person who supports the LGBTQIA+ community. - Androgynous
Possessing both male and female traits. - Demisexual
Someone who requires an emotional bond to form a sexual attraction. - Genderqueer
Having characteristics of no gender, male and female, or any combination of these or other genders. - Pansexual/Omnisexual
Someone attracted to all genders and sexes. - Polyamorous
Being open to multiple sexual and/or romantic relationships at the same time. - Two-Spirit
Typically used by Native Americans to describe a third gender. - Other
Any other form of non-straight and/or non-cisgender traits or identities.
You or someone you know might not fit into any of the letters in LGBTQIA, but if you’re not straight and cisgender, you are a plus. There might not be any letter that describes your gender identity or sexual orientation. But there doesn’t need to be.
You are unique. You are amazing. You are your own beautiful note in the symphony of life. You are your own unique texture in the tapestry of time. You are your own vibrant colors on the canvas of humanity. You are unique and irreplaceable, and you should be very proud of who you are! I know we sure are!
