LGBTQIA+

LGBTQIA+ is an umbrella term for different sexual orientations, romantic orientations, gender identities and sex characteristics outside heteronormative and cisnormative assumptions. There are many versions of the abbreviation, such as LGBT+, LGBTQIA+, LGBTQIAA+ or longer forms with additional letters. The order and selection of letters can vary depending on language, political context and community.

Depending on the version, the letters may stand for lesbian, gay, bisexual or bi+sexual, asexual, aromantic, trans, non-binary, intersex, queer and questioning people. Expanded forms may include further terms, such as pansexual, polyamorous, agender or other self-descriptions. The plus sign indicates that no abbreviation can fully cover all identities, ways of life and experiences, and that additional queer positions are meant to be included.

The word “queer” is often used as a shorter alternative. It can serve as an inclusive umbrella term, but not everyone within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum uses it for themselves. A respectful approach is therefore to pay attention to each person’s self-description and not to infer bodies, sexuality, relationship style, roles, preferences or boundaries from an abbreviation. In dating, sexuality and BDSM, individual communication, consent and respectful language remain essential.