An Ally's Guide to Terminology: Talking About LGBT People & Equality
Millions of Americans identify as LGBTQ, and like any group, they have their own language to talk about both who they are and the challenges they face in a society that doesn't fully accept or protect them.
If you want to be an ally, these terms might help — but be aware that many have been used derogatorily by straight, white, cisgender (defined below!) people, and were reclaimed over time by the LGBTQ community. This list is by no means exhaustive, and some of these terms — because they are so personal — likely mean slightly different things to different people. If you're puzzled by a term and feel like you can ask someone you know in the LGBTQ community to help you make sense of it, do it. Seeking to understand others is important in building trust, equity, and expanding our own understandings. For example - if someone discloses to you they are asexual, you can respond, " I support you and appreciate you sharing that with me. Can you tell more about what it means, for you personally, to identify as asexual ?"
This honesty and desire to seek understanding is essential for us to move from ambivalent to supportive as we build more inclusive, equitable spaces. It is also useful in advancing your discussions about the harms and injustices LGBTQ individuals face, the essential legal protections they need, and the common values we all share.
This guide is created and distributed by GLAAD:
https://www.glaad.org/sites/default/files/allys-guide-to-terminology_1.pdf
If you want to be an ally, these terms might help — but be aware that many have been used derogatorily by straight, white, cisgender (defined below!) people, and were reclaimed over time by the LGBTQ community. This list is by no means exhaustive, and some of these terms — because they are so personal — likely mean slightly different things to different people. If you're puzzled by a term and feel like you can ask someone you know in the LGBTQ community to help you make sense of it, do it. Seeking to understand others is important in building trust, equity, and expanding our own understandings. For example - if someone discloses to you they are asexual, you can respond, " I support you and appreciate you sharing that with me. Can you tell more about what it means, for you personally, to identify as asexual ?"
This honesty and desire to seek understanding is essential for us to move from ambivalent to supportive as we build more inclusive, equitable spaces. It is also useful in advancing your discussions about the harms and injustices LGBTQ individuals face, the essential legal protections they need, and the common values we all share.
This guide is created and distributed by GLAAD:
https://www.glaad.org/sites/default/files/allys-guide-to-terminology_1.pdf
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