LGBTQ people

LGBTQ people are individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer. This group also often includes people who are questioning their gender or sexual identity, intersex (meaning they have natural variations in their bodies), asexual (meaning they may not feel romantic or sexual attraction), aromantic (meaning they may not feel romantic attraction), and agender (meaning they do not identify with any gender).

The term “LGBTQ” is a way to talk about all these different identities together. These people are part of what is called a sexual or gender minority. Being LGBTQ is a normal part of human diversity. Many LGBTQ people live full, happy lives and contribute in important ways to communities, arts, sciences, and more.

Understanding LGBTQ identities helps us respect everyone, regardless of how they see themselves. It’s important to know that being LGBTQ is not a choice—it’s a natural variation in how people experience their gender and attraction. Learning about these identities helps create a more inclusive and kind world for all.

Scope and terminology

Main articles: LGBTQ (term) and List of LGBTQ acronyms

LGBTQ people have different identities related to sexual and gender. This group includes people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and more. Some people use broader terms like "gender, sexual, and romantic minorities" to describe this community.

The LGBTQ community has many identities, such as people who are not straight, are transgender or non-binary, aromantic, intersex, or identify as queer. There are many ways to write the name of this group, like LGBT, LGBTQ+, LGBTQIA+, and others.

Community

Main article: LGBTQ community

LGBTQ people may join the LGBTQ community. This community brings together people who share LGBTQ culture or live in the same area. It includes social groups, student groups, and religious groups that support LGBTQ people. Many see the community as a way to support each other and stand up against unfair treatments. Not everyone who is LGBTQ identifies as part of this community.

Culture

Main article: LGBTQ culture

See also: Outline of LGBTQ topics § Culture

LGBTQ culture is different in each place and for each person. Many LGBTQ people enjoy Pride movements and pride parades. They also enjoy special events like the Gay Games and Southern Decadence. There is media made by LGBTQ artists, such as the queer art movement. Many LGBTQ-owned businesses serve the community.

Not everyone in the LGBTQ community feels connected to this culture. Some people live far from others who share their identity. Others might not know much about these traditions. Some may feel uneasy because of social stigma or prefer not to join groups focused on sexuality or gender. Some movements, like Queercore and Gay Shame, think about how much money and attention some parts of LGBTQ culture receive.

History

Main article: LGBTQ history

The history of LGBTQ people goes back a very long time. People have shown same-sex love and different gender identities in many cultures around the world. Sadly, these people have often been treated unfairly and not always accepted. Only recently have their stories begun to appear in history books and lessons.

In 1994, people in the United States started celebrating LGBT History Month every October. This is a time to learn about the lives of LGBTQ people, their fight for equal rights, and important events in their history. Other countries have also begun to observe this month, each in their own way. Some big moments include the Netherlands becoming the first country to allow same-sex marriage in 2001, and Ireland being the first country to allow it by a vote of its people in 2015.

Rights

Main article: LGBTQ rights by country or territory

See also: Outline of LGBTQ topics § Rights

The rights of LGBTQ people change depending on where they live. Some places allow same-sex marriage and protect LGBTQ individuals from unfair treatment. Other places have stricter laws.

Important laws that impact LGBTQ people include:

• legal recognition of same-sex marriage
• laws about same-sex parenting and same-sex adoption
• anti-discrimination laws in jobs, housing, schools, and public places
• hate crime laws that add extra punishment for violent crimes motivated by prejudice against LGBTQ people
• bathroom bills that affect which restrooms transgender people can use
• laws about access to gender-affirming surgery and gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy
• legal recognition and accommodation of the affirmed gender

Even in places with good protections, LGBTQ people can still face unfair treatment.

Discrimination

Main article: Discrimination against LGBTQ people

See also: Outline of LGBTQ topics § Anti-LGBTQ topics

Discrimination against LGBTQ people can happen in many ways, like through rules, groups, or society. This can affect lesbians, gay people, bisexuals, transgender individuals, asexual people, intersex people, and non-binary people.

Opposition to LGBTQ rights exists in many places. While laws help make things fair, they are not enough to stop unfair thoughts. Changing ideas takes time and work from everyone, including people, groups, and leaders. Some countries do not talk about LGBTQ issues, and some people do not accept LGBTQ people.

Movements

Main article: LGBTQ movements

LGBTQ movements are social movements that support the rights and inclusion of LGBTQ people. They work to make laws fair and help society become more equal and welcoming for everyone. These movements also help grow and celebrate LGBTQ culture and community.

Health

Main articles: LGBTQ health, Mental health of LGBTQ people, and LGBTQ psychology

LGBTQ people sometimes have trouble getting the healthcare they need. This can affect their health and happiness. Learning about LGBTQ psychology helps us understand how they see themselves and find support from families and friends.

By country

Main category: LGBTQ by country

See also: Category:LGBTQ by location

LGBTQ people live in many countries around the world. Each country has its own rules and traditions. Some places, like Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, have good protections for LGBTQ rights. Other countries, such as Mexico and Thailand, have different ways of supporting LGBTQ communities.

Specific LGBTQ people

Main article: Lists of LGBTQ people

LGBTQ people are those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer. This group can also include people who are questioning their gender or sexual identity, intersex, asexual, aromantic, or agender. All these individuals are part of the larger community of sexual and gender minorities.