LGBTQA

LGBTQA refers to the community of individuals that identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, or Asexual (or Ally or Aromantic). It comes from the more common LGBT and LGBTQ acronyms but is more inclusive because it includes asexual people.

In the mid-2010s, members in the non-heteronormative community began using LGBTQA more to include individuals who were asexual, aromantic, or allies. However, for some, LGBTQA was still not inclusive enough of other identities and was broadened to LGBTTQQIAAP. While you may see the LGBTQA acronym anytime during the year, you will most often see it in June, "Pride" month where activists celebrate the community.

What does each letter in LGBTQA stand for?

• Lesbian - A homosexual woman.
• Gay - A homosexual person.
• Bisexual - A person attracted to both males and females.
• Transgender - A person who identifies with a gender identity different from his or her sex.
• Queer - A person who is transgender or not heterosexual.
• Asexual - A person who is not sexually attracted to anyone or has very little interest in sexual activity. It may also stand for "Aromantic," which is a person who has no interest in romantic relationships.

NOTE: Some people assert that the "A" can stand for "Ally," which is a person who does not fall under any of the LGBTQ categories (traditionally heterosexual) but joins together with members in the community to help their cause. However, others argue that allies should not be included in LGBTQA since they do not face the same challenges as the community.