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

The LGBTQ community includes people with various identities, such as those 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, which brings together individuals who share LGBTQ culture, live in the same area, or work with groups focused on LGBTQ issues. This community includes social movements, student groups, and religious groups that support LGBTQ people. Many see the community as a way to stand up against unfair treatments and pressures in society. However, 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 changes depending on where you are and who you ask. Many LGBTQ people enjoy things like Pride movements and pride parades, special events such as the Gay Games and Southern Decadence, and media created by LGBTQ artists like the queer art movement. There are also many LGBTQ-owned businesses that serve the community.

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

History

Main article: LGBTQ history

The history of LGBTQ people goes back a very long time, with records of same-sex love and different gender identities found in many cultures around the world. Unfortunately, these people have often faced unfair treatment and were not always accepted. Only in recent years have their stories started to be included in history books and lessons.

In 1994, people in the United States began 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 started 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 differ a lot depending on where they live. Some places allow same-sex marriage and protect LGBTQ individuals from unfair treatment, while others 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, such as through laws, institutions, 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 parts of the world. While laws are important for equality, they are not enough to stop prejudice. Changing attitudes takes time and effort from everyone, including individuals, society, organizations, and authorities. Some countries also censor LGBTQ issues, and there are social divides regarding the acceptance of LGBTQ people.

Movements

Main article: LGBTQ movements

LGBTQ movements are social movements that support the rights and inclusion of LGBTQ people. They aim to create fair laws and change society to be 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 may face challenges in getting proper healthcare and support. This can affect their physical and mental well-being. The psychology of LGBTQ people includes important topics like how they understand their identities and find support in families and communities.

By country

Main category: LGBTQ by country

See also: Category:LGBTQ by location

LGBTQ people live in many countries around the world, each with its own laws and traditions. Some nations, like Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, have strong protections for LGBTQ rights. Others, such as Mexico and Thailand, have different approaches and experiences for LGBTQ communities.

Specific LGBTQ people

Main article: Lists of LGBTQ people

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