First of all, it’s important to understand that the LGBTQ+ community is so much more than just “a bunch of weirdos.” In fact, thanks to the activism and advocacy of the LGBTQ+ community, many of the rights and freedoms you enjoy today—regardless of your own identity—exist because of their efforts.
We know many of you might be tired of hearing about LGBTQ+ topics everywhere, but the reality is that being part of the LGBTQ+ community isn’t a choice for most people. The most common case: you’re a teenager, and your group of friends is interested in the opposite sex—but you feel nothing when you look at them. So you have two choices: pretend to be in love and lie about it, fearing their reaction to your preferences; or be brave and tell them you’re different from them.
I’m talking about the typical stereotype here, but of course, this context can change depending on your preferences, family, identity, and many other factors.
At Sensavite, we know this topic can be overwhelming depending on the teachings you received. Here, we will spoon-feed you like when you were kids. So, let’s get started!!
Vocabulary:
Sexual Orientation: This refers to your sexual preferences — do you like boys? Girls? Or maybe you don’t care?
pikisuperstar – Freepik.com
Gender Identity: You might think you’d be happier as a boy or a girl instead of your assigned sex at birth, but sorry, honey — you’re not just a basic straight cis person. Also, if you don’t fit into those identities, you might be non-binary.
Gender Expression: It’s very simple: would you rather be a little more feminine as a boy or a little more masculine as a girl? This doesn’t mean you’re into boys or girls — it’s just about how you like to express yourself. Also, wearing clothes with extra details doesn’t change your identity or your preferences.
pikisuperstar – Freepik.com
Remember, you didn’t discover the world, you’re not alone, and you’re not a weirdo. You just haven’t met people like you yet.
Many people like you have lived their whole lives in fear. Nobody deserves to be told how to live their lives. So grab your flag and shout — in honor of those who were and still are unable to. Love yourself and be proud of who you are.
