Everyone's differentSexual orientation and gender identity
Sexual orientation and gender identity
One of the main differences between sexual orientation and gender identity and other forms of diversity is that they are hidden. More often than not you will not be aware that a person is lesbian, gay or bisexual based on their physical appearance.
Here are some useful definitions:
- Lesbian: a woman who is attracted to other women.
- Gay: a man who is attracted to other men.
- Bisexual: people who are attracted to both same sex and opposite sex partners.
Gender identity describes a person's sense of identification as a male or female. Some people's sense of identification doesn't always match their gender, these include:
- Transgender: are those who identify their gender to be different from the physical sex at birth.
- Transsexual: are those who intend to undergo, are undergoing or have undergone gender reassignment.
- The term transvestite describes people, usually men, who cross-dress, ie they like to wear clothing of the opposite sex.
Homophobia is a fear of and/or hostility towards lesbian, gay and bisexual people.
Transphobia is fear, hatred or hostility towards transsexual and transvestite people.
Homophobia and transphobia can take many forms - name calling, bullying and physical assaults are most common. Such behaviour towards a lesbian, gay or transgender person can have a devastating effect on them.
FACT: Over 50% of young lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people have suffered a violent attack.
Often attacks go unreported and so the young person does not get the support to which they are entitled. It is important to appreciate and treat with respect all members of the community, and value social diversity.
