The last couple of decades has been filled with civil rights movements and the transformation of a nation. We are growing and learning not only to tolerate people's differences, but to celebrate them. However, this transformation can leave us paranoid, not knowing what terms are appropriate and wondering how to be an ally. We want to show our support, but with changes comes confusion.
This especially rings true when it comes to the LGBTQIA+ Movement. What is gender, sex, sexuality, intersex, and so much more? How is it fluid? How do I learn without being offensive? Well, I think the best place to start is finding out what you are talking about, because no one wants to be called something their not. So here are some quick definitions to get you started!
1) Sex: Biological or Birth Sex
This term generally refers to what we are born with. Specifically the genetic, chemical, and anatomical characteristics that we are born with or develop throughout our lives. The types include (but not limited to): Female, male, and intersex.
2) Intersex
This describes people born with physical sex markers that are outside the "normal" boxes of male and female. This term replaces hermaphrodite, which tends to confuse people and is used as a slur. There are many ways a person can be intersex. Some people have a combination of both internal and external sex organs and tissues, while others may have a unique chromosome set such as XXY.
3) Gender & Gender Identity
This term is often confused with sex. However, gender refers to the idea of what role in society a person should take based on their predicted or assigned sex. Gender focuses on personality traits and assumptions. Because of this someone's gender does not always line up with their assigned sex. This is seen throughout history, as there are documented cases and terms for it in almost all cultures.
4) Bigender
This describes individuals who identify as having both "male" and "female" sides to their personality. In the Hawaiian culture, these people are called Māhū. Throughout history, they have been respected and prominent members of society. However, with the spread of Western beliefs, these people have faced more hardships and discrimination.
5) Sexuality
Sexuality is about how a person sees themselves, and that includes sexual orientation, fantasies, attitudes, and values related to sex. Homosexuality, lesbian, gay, straight, bisexual are just a few examples.
6) Asexual
This describes those who are not sexually attracted to others or are not interested in sex.
7) Pansexual
This term is used by those attracted to ALL types of people and genders. Pansexual is different than bisexual, which generally means that a person is attracted to two or more genders but is not necessarily attracted to all genders.
While just knowing a few definitions is a far cry from creating a world of real equality, it is a start.
The world is not just men and women, but full of an entire spectrum of people and loves. And no matter your faith, it never hurts to learn about someone else and spread a little love while you're at it.
