What Does LGBTQIA+ Mean? A Simple Guide to Sexuality and Gender

You may have seen "LGBTQIA+" on social media, in the news or at a Pride walk and wondered what every letter stands for. Understanding these words helps us talk about sexuality and gender with more kindness, whether you are exploring your own identity or want to support someone else.

Two different things: orientation and identity

• Sexual orientation is about who you are emotionally, romantically or sexually attracted to.
• Gender identity is your inner sense of being a man, a woman, both, neither or somewhere else.

They are separate. A transgender person, for example, can be straight, gay, bisexual or asexual, just like anyone else.

What the letters mean

• L: Lesbian. A woman attracted to women.
• G: Gay. A man attracted to men. Also used by many people of any gender who are attracted to the same gender.
• B: Bisexual. Attracted to more than one gender.
• T: Transgender. A person whose gender identity is different from the sex they were assigned at birth.
• Q: Queer or Questioning. "Queer" is an umbrella word many people use for themselves. "Questioning" means still exploring.
• I: Intersex. A person born with physical sex characteristics (such as chromosomes, hormones or anatomy) that do not fit typical definitions of male or female.
• A: Asexual. A person who experiences little or no sexual attraction. Some people also include aromantic (little or no romantic attraction) and allies.
• +: And more. Including pansexual (attraction regardless of gender), non-binary (a gender identity that is not only man or woman) and others.

Identities with a long history in India

Gender diversity is not new to India. Communities such as hijra, kinnar, aravani and jogappa have existed for centuries, with their own cultures and traditions. In 2014, the Supreme Court, in the NALSA judgment, recognised transgender people's right to identify their own gender, including as a third gender.

Do you need a label?

No. Labels can help people feel understood and find community, but some people never use one, and some find their label changes over time. Exploring and questioning is a normal part of understanding yourself.

Talking respectfully

• Use the name and pronouns (he, she, they) a person uses for themselves.
• Avoid asking about someone's body, medical history or "real name".
• Do not "out" anyone: their identity is theirs to share.
• If you make a mistake, apologise briefly and do better next time.

Common myths

• "It's a phase." For most people, orientation and gender identity are a stable part of who they are.
• "It's a Western idea." Diverse sexualities and genders appear across Indian history, art and communities.
• "It can be cured." It is not an illness. Attempts to change it cause harm. Read more in Is being gay a mental illness?

Need to talk?

Whether you are questioning your own identity or supporting someone you love, our professionals offer confidential, judgment-free support online and in Warangal. Book a session.

Frequently asked questions

What is the full form of LGBTQIA+?

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and the plus for other identities such as pansexual and non-binary.

What is the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity?

Sexual orientation is about who you are attracted to. Gender identity is your inner sense of your own gender.

Do I need to choose a label?

No. Labels can help, but many people never use one, and that is completely okay.