LGBTQI+ is an acronym used to represent the diverse identities within the queer community. Each letter represents a different aspect of identity, and the acronym is often used to celebrate and promote inclusivity and diversity. In this blog, we will break down the meaning of each letter, as well as introduce takatāpui, a unique identity specific to New Zealand.
L – Lesbian
The first letter in the acronym stands for lesbian, which is a term used to describe women who are attracted to other women. This identity is often associated with femininity and is an important aspect of the queer community.
G – Gay
The next letter represents gay, which is a term used to describe men who are attracted to other men. This identity is often associated with masculinity and is a significant aspect of queer culture.
B – Bisexual
The third letter represents bisexual, which is a term used to describe individuals attracted to more than one gender. This identity recognises that attraction is not limited to one gender, and is an important aspect of the queer community.
T – Transgender
The fourth letter represents transgender, which is a term used to describe individuals whose gender identity does not align with the sex assigned to them at birth. This identity recognises that gender is not always binary and is an important aspect of the queer community.
Q – Queer/Questioning
The fifth letter represents queer, which is a term used to describe individuals who do not fit into traditional gender and sexuality categories. This term is also used as an umbrella term to encompass other identities within the queer community. The “Q” can also stand for questioning, which refers to individuals exploring their gender or sexual identity.
I – Intersex
The sixth letter represents intersex, which is a term used to describe individuals born with physical or biological sex characteristics that do not fit traditional male or female categories. This identity recognises the diversity of human bodies and is an important aspect of the queer community.
Other Identities
The “+” symbol at the end of the acronym represents other identities not included in the letters above. This can include asexual, pansexual, non-binary, and many other identities that fall under the queer umbrella.
In addition to the above identities, there is a unique identity specific to New Zealand called takatāpui. Takatāpui is a term used by Māori people to describe their LGBTQI+ community members. It is often translated as “intimate companion of the same sex” and is a term that recognises the intersection of sexuality, gender, and culture within the Māori community. Takatāpui individuals are recognised and celebrated within Māori culture, and the term is an important aspect of New Zealand’s LGBTQI+ community.
The LGBTQI+ acronym represents a diverse range of identities within the queer community. Each letter represents an important aspect of identity, and the acronym is often used to promote inclusivity and diversity. The addition of the “+” symbol recognises that there are many other identities that fall under the queer umbrella. The inclusion of takatāpui in New Zealand’s LGBTQI+ community highlights the importance of recognising the intersection of sexuality, gender, and culture. Overall, the LGBTQI+ acronym and its various identities help promote acceptance, understanding, and celebration of diversity within the queer community.