Greetings STARFLEET,

Continuing our series from the USS Battle Born, today’s post is all about the different letters in LGBTQIA+, what they mean, and why the acronym keeps getting longer. As a diverse organization, understanding this helps everyone support each other.

LGBTQIA+ is the current correct term. The letters stand for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual. The + signifies the other identities in the community, of which there are many. Some people also include aromantic and agender for the a, as a side note.

Grassroots LGBTQIA+ organizations began forming in the U.S. in the 1950s and 1960s, and they tended to focus on gay and lesbian issues exclusively. The exclusive focus minimized intersectional matters, so many people felt uncomfortable participating.

Over time, other identities founded their own organizations. Because the percentage of the population who holds these identities is smaller (asexual is estimated at 1% of the population, for example), the organizations took more time to gain momentum and visibility.

As interests aligned in the advocacy, organizations became more open to accepting identities outside their own in the name of resource efficiency. Many issues shared amongst the communities, such as recognizing partnerships and job discrimination, formed those bonds.

Today, more organizations are inclusive of other identities than not. However, that does not mean every community member knows the various identities or shares the same definitions. Therefore, it’s best not to presume an LGBTQIA+ person speaks for every identity in the community.

Sometimes it seems like a new identity is added every few months, and it’s hard to keep up. Adding identities to the community is a positive thing, in any case. It means more people know there is a word for what they are experiencing.

Additionally, these identities add specificity and nuance to the conversation. Terms like aromantic describe how a group of people experience the world. By having specific terms, someone can accurately describe their experience and meet others like them.

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community may also use multiple identities. For example, someone may be transgender and lesbian at the same time. This fact also contributes to the number of identities the community uses.

Remember, disclosure of identities is a matter of trust. Many LGBTQIA+ people have experienced discrimination and live in areas where their identities can place them in danger. Being ‘out’ is a luxury many do not have.

If someone discloses their identities, keep that as confidential information. Outing someone is never acceptable and may put them in the path of discrimination or bodily harm. We are STARFLEET, and we protect our own.

Be Kind and Boldly Go, STARFLEET.