What does the a in lgbtq stand for

According to a 2023 Gallup poll, 7.6% of U.S. adults self-identify as queer woman , gay, bisexual, transgender or something other than heterosexual. In the last 11 years, this has increased by 4.1 percentage points.

Today, over 20% of Gen Z adults – those between the ages of 18 to 26 – identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, Gallup reports. The rising numbers come in part due to "larger society changing" with people feeling more comfortable sharing their identities, experts previously told USA TODAY.

Maybe you've seen or heard terms used to describe someone's identity. You might hold a friend or family who identifies as "asexual," but were unsure of the exact definition. Fret not, we've got you covered.

What does the 'A' in LGBTQIA for?

The 'A' in LGBTQIA stands for "asexual."

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

"LGBTQ" is an acronym. Over the last few decades, recent letters have been added to the lineup. 

Each letter in LGBTQ means:

• L: Lesbian
• G: Gay
• B: Bisexual
• T: Transgender (differs from the rest of the acronym as it relates to gender and not sexual identity)
• Q: Added to the acr

  Struggling to understand the LGBTQIA+ meaning of the acronym? You’re not alone. 

  For many people who are unused to the LGBTQIA+ people, this acronym can feel confusing or overwhelming. 

  If you are new, welcome! We’re so glad you’re here with us today. 

  And if you aren’t new to the community, but are curious to learn more about how the society has changed over the years, we’re delighted you’ve joined us today, too. 

  The way the LGBTQIA+ society interacts – both with each other and with the world around us – is constantly transforming. We strive to encompass everyone and to produce everyone feel seen and understood. 

  What Does LGBTQIA+ Mean?

  For many years, the umbrella term “gay” was used to describe the community. 

  Now, many people worry about how to come out, but coming out before the 1970s wasn’t even an option, as many states illegalized what they called “homosexuality” or “sodomy.” There was also no acronym at all, restricting the inclusivity of our community.

  Once an acronym appeared, all versions of it began with “L” – for an important reason. 

  In the early days of the gay rights movement, the lesbian community often felt dismissed or
  
  

  LGBTQIA Resource Center Glossary

  GLOSSARY

  The terms and definitions below are always evolving, altering and often imply different things to different people. They are provided below as a starting point for discussion and understanding. This Glossary has been collectively built and created by the staff members of the LGBTQIA Resource Center since the early 2000s.

  These are not universal definitions. This glossary is provided to serve give others a more thorough but not entirely comprehensive understanding of the significance of these terms. You may even consider asking someone what they mean when they use a phrase, especially when they use it to describe their culture. Ultimately it is most important that each individual characterize themselves for themselves and therefore also define a legal title for themselves.

   

  “If I didn't define myself for myself, I would be crunched into other people's fantasies for me and eaten alive.” -Audre Lorde

  This glossary contains terms, such as ableism and disability, that may not be considered directly related to identities of sexuality or gender. These terms are vital to acknowledge as part of our mission to disagree all forms of oppress
  

  What does LGBTQ stand for? Breaking down the definition of each letter in the acronym.

  Pride Month is about more than parades and “rainbow capitalism.” It’s also a month for allies to educate themselves on the issues impacting the LGBTQ+ community. 

  At a minimum, it's important to understand the identities within the community. Each self is different and experiences different marginalization because of their gender identity or sexuality

  The LGBTQ acronym has gone through many makeovers in recent decades and holds important meaning that most are unaware of. For example, the reason the “L” comes first is an homage to lesbian health care workers who assisted gay men in the early days of the HIV/AIDS outbreak when many medical professionals refused to even be in the same room as patients with the disease.

  What does LGBTQ rise for?

  LGBTQ is an acronym that describes various identities in the queer collective. It stands for “lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer.” 

  Some letters refer to sexual orientation while others signify gender identity. The “+” symbol is often added to recognize other diverse sexualities and gender identities within the society, like nonbinary,a
  

  What does it intend to be an LGBTQ ally?

  Posted June 27, 2021 by Summa Health Pride Clinic

  Anyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can help the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Questioning) group. But being an ally of this population takes activity. Allies work to stay informed on current LGBT issues and events. They speak up for what’s right and they support equality by fighting for policies that defend LGBTQ individuals from discrimination.

  Allies are crucial and welcomed supporters of the LGBTQ movement, as they have one of the most dominant, influential voices. They help create a platform for protest to fight homophobia and transphobia, and they personally advocate for equal treatment for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation.  

  As we get ready to celebrate Pride Month in June, Summa Health’s Employee Resource Group, A+PLUs (Allies and People Enjoy Us) wants to commemorate this year’s festivities by talking about what the “A” in A+PLUs represents. What does it mean to be a correct ally to the LGBTQ community?

  We asked sisters, nieces, friends and colleagues to provide a