Glossary

Advocacy involves supporting, speaking, or acting on behalf of oneself or others to promote, protect, or defend their rights, needs, and interests. It includes activities like raising awareness, influencing policies, or working towards positive changes in social, political, or cultural spheres.

Someone who makes the commitment and effort to recognize their privilege (based on gender, class, race, sexual identity, etc.) and work in solidarity with oppressed groups in the struggle for justice. Allies understand that it is in their own interest to end all forms of oppression, even those from which they may benefit in concrete ways.

Allyship describes being an ally, engaging in actions demonstrating support, solidarity, and advocacy for marginalized or oppressed groups. It involves ongoing education, self-reflection, and taking concrete steps to challenge discrimination or inequality.

A person who is not sexually attracted to others.

An inclination or prejudice for or against one person or group, especially in a way considered unfair. Biases are often based on stereotypes rather than actual knowledge of an individual or group. People are naturally biased, but it is often learned and can be either conscious or, in most cases, unconscious.

Bigotry refers to intolerance, prejudice, or discrimination against individuals or groups based on factors such as race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other characteristics. It often involves narrow-mindedness, stereotyping, and a refusal to consider or respect the perspectives and rights of others.

The biological characteristics that make up the anatomy of an individual’s reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. Some individuals may have biological sex characteristics that fall outside of the binary, such as intersex individuals.

This is an umbrella term used to describe a romantic or sexual orientation to more than one gender.

Someone whose gender identity is the same as the sex they were assigned at birth.

When a person reveals their sexual orientation (or gender identity in the case of trans and non-binary persons) for the first time. This may be to themselves, another person, or a group of people. Note that many LGBTQIA+ people never stop coming out, as there are different contexts and situations in which someone may be coming out for the first time.

Cultural appropriation is the adoption or use of elements from one culture by members of another culture, often without proper understanding, acknowledgment, or respect for the significance or context of those elements. It can involve borrowing symbols, practices, clothing, or traditions in a way that can be disrespectful or insensitive to the originating culture.

Discrimination involves treating individuals or groups unfairly or unfavorably based on certain characteristics such as race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or other attributes. It can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to exclusion, bias, prejudice, harassment, or unequal treatment. Discrimination can occur in social, economic, educational, or legal contexts, leading to the unjust or unequal treatment of individuals or groups based on perceived differences.

Diversity refers to the range of human differences, encompassing but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic status, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, and more. Embracing diversity involves acknowledging and respecting these differences within a community or society.

Equality focuses on ensuring that everyone has the same rights, opportunities, and treatment without discrimination or favoritism. It aims to create a level playing field for all individuals or groups, regardless of their backgrounds or differences.

Equity involves ensuring fairness, justice, and impartiality in processes, systems, or outcomes, specifically by providing resources, opportunities, and support tailored to meet the needs of individuals or groups who have been historically marginalized or disadvantaged. It acknowledges that treating everyone equally does not always result in fairness due to differing circumstances and needs.

Typically refers to a man, but sometimes a woman or non-binary person, who has a romantic and/or sexual attraction towards others of the same sex.

The general population is the entire group of individuals living within a specific geographic area or belonging to a particular community, encompassing people with diverse backgrounds, characteristics, and experiences. It typically represents the broader demographic makeup of a society or region.

Harassment refers to unwanted or unwelcome behavior that demeans, intimidates, humiliates, or creates a hostile or offensive environment for an individual or a group. It can take various forms, such as verbal, physical, or written actions, and often involves persistent and unwanted behavior that violates an individual’s rights or dignity.

A fear or dislike, usually based on prejudice or negative misinformation, of people whose sexual orientation is not straight, e.g., gay or lesbian.

Inclusion is the practice of creating environments, cultures, and policies where all individuals feel welcomed, respected, valued, and supported. It involves embracing diversity and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their differences, has the opportunity to participate fully and contribute to the community or organizations.

Inequality refers to disparities or uneven distribution of resources, opportunities, or treatment among individuals or groups based on various factors such as race, gender, socio-economic status, or other characteristics. It signifies a lack of fairness or justice in access to essential resources or opportunities within a society or community.

Intersectionality recognizes that individuals’ experiences of discrimination or disadvantage can be shaped by the intersection of multiple social categorizations or identities, such as race, gender, class, sexual orientation, disability, and more. It acknowledges that these interconnected aspects can amplify the impact of discrimination or privilege, leading to unique and complex experiences for individuals or groups.

The terms “-isms and -phobias” collectively represent ideologies, beliefs, or behaviors that lead to discrimination, prejudice, or bias against individuals or groups based on certain characteristics. “-Isms” denote systems or beliefs that perpetuate inequality or discrimination, such as racism, sexism, ageism, or ableism, while “-phobias” represent irrational fears, aversions, or prejudices towards specific identities or groups, like homophobia, transphobia, or xenophobia. These terms collectively highlight various forms of bias, discrimination, or systemic issues that impact marginalized communities.

Refers to women who are romantically/sexually attracted to other women.

An acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning. The + acknowledges that there are more experiences/ identities within the community, such as Intersex and Asexual.

A meritocracy is a system or society in which advancement, success, or rewards are based primarily on individual talent, abilities, and merit rather than factors like social status, wealth, or privilege. The concept suggests that individuals should be able to achieve success based on their skills and hard work.

Microaffirmations are small, deliberate acts or behaviors that recognize, validate, or affirm the identities, experiences, or contributions of marginalized individuals or groups. These actions aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment by acknowledging the value and worth of diverse perspectives.

Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional verbal or non-verbal slights, snubs, or derogatory comments that communicate negative or hostile messages to individuals based on their race, gender, sexual orientation, or other identities. They can be dismissive, demeaning, or invalidating, contributing to a hostile or uncomfortable environment.

Multicultural competency refers to the ability of individuals or organizations to effectively interact, communicate, and work with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. It involves understanding, respecting, and valuing cultural differences while navigating interactions and relationships in a respectful and inclusive manner.

The myth of meritocracy challenges the belief that society operates as a pure meritocracy, emphasizing that success and advancement are solely based on individual merit and hard work. It critiques the idea by highlighting how factors like privilege, biases, and systemic inequalities can significantly impact opportunities and outcomes, making true meritocracy unattainable for many individuals or groups.

A term used for people whose gender identity doesn’t sit comfortably or solely with male or female.

Oppression refers to the systematic and unjust exercise of power, often by dominant groups, to marginalize, subjugate, or limit the opportunities and rights of individuals or groups based on their identities, such as race, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. It involves the use of authority or societal structures to maintain control and disadvantage certain groups.

When a person within the LGBTQIA+ community’s sexual orientation or gender identity is disclosed without their consent.

Refers to a person whose romantic and/or sexual attraction towards others is not limited by sex or gender.

Patriarchy is a social system where power and authority are predominantly held by men, typically to the exclusion or disadvantage of women and other genders. It encompasses societal norms, institutions, and practices that reinforce male dominance, often resulting in the marginalization or subordination of women.

Political correctness, originally intended to promote inclusive and respectful language and behavior, has evolved into a term often used pejoratively to criticize efforts aimed at inclusivity. It refers to avoiding language or actions that might be perceived as offensive or marginalizing towards certain groups, often by promoting the more neutral or considerate language. However, the term is sometimes used derisively to criticize perceived over-sensitivity or censorship of speech, dismissing genuine attempts to foster inclusivity and sensitivity to diverse perspectives as excessive or unnecessary.

Prejudice is a preconceived opinion or attitude, usually negative, formed without sufficient knowledge, understanding, or reason, often directed towards individuals or groups based on their identity, such as race, religion, gender, or other characteristics. It involves making unfair judgments or holding biased beliefs about others.

Privilege refers to unearned advantages, benefits, or access to resources that certain individuals or groups enjoy solely because of their identity, often based on factors like race, gender, socio-economic status, or ability. It includes societal advantages that are not necessarily earned but result from systemic inequalities.

Set of third-party pronouns that an individual prefers others to use in order to identify that person’s gender e.g. he/him/his, she/her/hers, they/them/theirs.

Psychological safety is a workplace or social environment where individuals feel comfortable taking interpersonal risks, speaking up, sharing ideas, and expressing themselves without fear of negative consequences or retribution. It fosters open communication, trust, and collaboration.

The process of exploring your own sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Originally intended to denote environments that fostered inclusivity and respect, the term “safe space” has, at times, been used pejoratively to criticize efforts aimed at providing spaces for open dialogue and support. Some critics use the term mockingly, suggesting that creating such spaces coddles individuals or limits free expression by avoiding challenging or uncomfortable discussions. However, this use often overlooks the genuine intent to create spaces where marginalized or vulnerable individuals feel secure, respected, and free from discrimination, allowing for more open and honest conversations.

Orientation is an umbrella term describing a person’s attraction to other people. This attraction may be sexual (sexual orientation) and/or romantic (romantic orientation).

Social justice is the pursuit of equal rights, opportunities, and treatment for all individuals within society, aiming to address and rectify systemic inequalities, discrimination, and oppression based on various factors such as race, gender, class, and more. It advocates for fairness, equity, and the dismantling of barriers that hinder equal access to resources and opportunities.

A stereotype is a widely held but oversimplified and often inaccurate belief or idea about a particular group of people. It involves making assumptions or generalizations based on characteristics like race, gender, nationality, or other factors, without considering individual differences within the group. Stereotypes can perpetuate bias and contribute to discrimination.

Refers to people who are attracted to the opposite sex e.g. men sexually attracted to women.

Structural inequality refers to systemic disparities, biases, or imbalances embedded within social, economic, or political structures that result in unequal outcomes or opportunities for different groups in society. These inequalities are often deeply rooted in institutions, policies, or cultural norms and can perpetuate disadvantages for marginalized groups.

Tokenism is the practice of including individuals from underrepresented groups in a superficial or symbolic way, often to give the appearance of diversity without meaningful inclusion or genuine representation. It involves using a few individuals as tokens to showcase diversity without addressing systemic issues or providing equal opportunities for meaningful participation or influence.

An umbrella term for people whose gender identity and/or expression differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Being transgender does not imply any specific sexual orientation.

The steps a trans person may take to live in the gender with which they identify. Each person’s transition will involve different things. For some, this involves medical intervention, such as hormone therapy and surgeries, but not all trans people want or are able to have this.

A fear or dislike of a person based on the fact they are trans.

Advocacy involves supporting, speaking, or acting on behalf of oneself or others to promote, protect, or defend their rights, needs, and interests. It includes activities like raising awareness, influencing policies, or working towards positive changes in social, political, or cultural spheres.

Someone who makes the commitment and effort to recognize their privilege (based on gender, class, race, sexual identity, etc.) and work in solidarity with oppressed groups in the struggle for justice. Allies understand that it is in their own interest to end all forms of oppression, even those from which they may benefit in concrete ways.

Allyship describes being an ally, engaging in actions demonstrating support, solidarity, and advocacy for marginalized or oppressed groups. It involves ongoing education, self-reflection, and taking concrete steps to challenge discrimination or inequality.

A person who is not sexually attracted to others.

An inclination or prejudice for or against one person or group, especially in a way considered unfair. Biases are often based on stereotypes rather than actual knowledge of an individual or group. People are naturally biased, but it is often learned and can be either conscious or, in most cases, unconscious.

Bigotry refers to intolerance, prejudice, or discrimination against individuals or groups based on factors such as race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other characteristics. It often involves narrow-mindedness, stereotyping, and a refusal to consider or respect the perspectives and rights of others.

The biological characteristics that make up the anatomy of an individual’s reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics. Some individuals may have biological sex characteristics that fall outside of the binary, such as intersex individuals.

This is an umbrella term used to describe a romantic or sexual orientation to more than one gender.

Someone whose gender identity is the same as the sex they were assigned at birth.

When a person reveals their sexual orientation (or gender identity in the case of trans and non-binary persons) for the first time. This may be to themselves, another person, or a group of people. Note that many LGBTQIA+ people never stop coming out, as there are different contexts and situations in which someone may be coming out for the first time.

Cultural appropriation is the adoption or use of elements from one culture by members of another culture, often without proper understanding, acknowledgment, or respect for the significance or context of those elements. It can involve borrowing symbols, practices, clothing, or traditions in a way that can be disrespectful or insensitive to the originating culture.

Discrimination involves treating individuals or groups unfairly or unfavorably based on certain characteristics such as race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or other attributes. It can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to exclusion, bias, prejudice, harassment, or unequal treatment. Discrimination can occur in social, economic, educational, or legal contexts, leading to the unjust or unequal treatment of individuals or groups based on perceived differences.

Diversity refers to the range of human differences, encompassing but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic status, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, and more. Embracing diversity involves acknowledging and respecting these differences within a community or society.

Equality focuses on ensuring that everyone has the same rights, opportunities, and treatment without discrimination or favoritism. It aims to create a level playing field for all individuals or groups, regardless of their backgrounds or differences.

Equity involves ensuring fairness, justice, and impartiality in processes, systems, or outcomes, specifically by providing resources, opportunities, and support tailored to meet the needs of individuals or groups who have been historically marginalized or disadvantaged. It acknowledges that treating everyone equally does not always result in fairness due to differing circumstances and needs.

Typically refers to a man, but sometimes a woman or non-binary person, who has a romantic and/or sexual attraction towards others of the same sex.

The general population is the entire group of individuals living within a specific geographic area or belonging to a particular community, encompassing people with diverse backgrounds, characteristics, and experiences. It typically represents the broader demographic makeup of a society or region.

Harassment refers to unwanted or unwelcome behavior that demeans, intimidates, humiliates, or creates a hostile or offensive environment for an individual or a group. It can take various forms, such as verbal, physical, or written actions, and often involves persistent and unwanted behavior that violates an individual’s rights or dignity.

A fear or dislike, usually based on prejudice or negative misinformation, of people whose sexual orientation is not straight, e.g., gay or lesbian.

The terms “-isms and -phobias” collectively represent ideologies, beliefs, or behaviors that lead to discrimination, prejudice, or bias against individuals or groups based on certain characteristics. “-Isms” denote systems or beliefs that perpetuate inequality or discrimination, such as racism, sexism, ageism, or ableism, while “-phobias” represent irrational fears, aversions, or prejudices towards specific identities or groups, like homophobia, transphobia, or xenophobia. These terms collectively highlight various forms of bias, discrimination, or systemic issues that impact marginalized communities.

Inclusion is the practice of creating environments, cultures, and policies where all individuals feel welcomed, respected, valued, and supported. It involves embracing diversity and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their differences, has the opportunity to participate fully and contribute to the community or organizations.

Inequality refers to disparities or uneven distribution of resources, opportunities, or treatment among individuals or groups based on various factors such as race, gender, socio-economic status, or other characteristics. It signifies a lack of fairness or justice in access to essential resources or opportunities within a society or community.

Intersectionality recognizes that individuals’ experiences of discrimination or disadvantage can be shaped by the intersection of multiple social categorizations or identities, such as race, gender, class, sexual orientation, disability, and more. It acknowledges that these interconnected aspects can amplify the impact of discrimination or privilege, leading to unique and complex experiences for individuals or groups.

Refers to women who are romantically/sexually attracted to other women.

An acronym that stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning. The + acknowledges that there are more experiences/ identities within the community, such as Intersex and Asexual.

Multicultural competency refers to the ability of individuals or organizations to effectively interact, communicate, and work with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. It involves understanding, respecting, and valuing cultural differences while navigating interactions and relationships in a respectful and inclusive manner.

The myth of meritocracy challenges the belief that society operates as a pure meritocracy, emphasizing that success and advancement are solely based on individual merit and hard work. It critiques the idea by highlighting how factors like privilege, biases, and systemic inequalities can significantly impact opportunities and outcomes, making true meritocracy unattainable for many individuals or groups.

A meritocracy is a system or society in which advancement, success, or rewards are based primarily on individual talent, abilities, and merit rather than factors like social status, wealth, or privilege. The concept suggests that individuals should be able to achieve success based on their skills and hard work.

Microaffirmations are small, deliberate acts or behaviors that recognize, validate, or affirm the identities, experiences, or contributions of marginalized individuals or groups. These actions aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment by acknowledging the value and worth of diverse perspectives.

Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional verbal or non-verbal slights, snubs, or derogatory comments that communicate negative or hostile messages to individuals based on their race, gender, sexual orientation, or other identities. They can be dismissive, demeaning, or invalidating, contributing to a hostile or uncomfortable environment.

A term used for people whose gender identity doesn’t sit comfortably or solely with male or female.

Oppression refers to the systematic and unjust exercise of power, often by dominant groups, to marginalize, subjugate, or limit the opportunities and rights of individuals or groups based on their identities, such as race, gender, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. It involves the use of authority or societal structures to maintain control and disadvantage certain groups.

When a person within the LGBTQIA+ community’s sexual orientation or gender identity is disclosed without their consent.

Refers to a person whose romantic and/or sexual attraction towards others is not limited by sex or gender.

Patriarchy is a social system where power and authority are predominantly held by men, typically to the exclusion or disadvantage of women and other genders. It encompasses societal norms, institutions, and practices that reinforce male dominance, often resulting in the marginalization or subordination of women.

Political correctness, originally intended to promote inclusive and respectful language and behavior, has evolved into a term often used pejoratively to criticize efforts aimed at inclusivity. It refers to avoiding language or actions that might be perceived as offensive or marginalizing towards certain groups, often by promoting the more neutral or considerate language. However, the term is sometimes used derisively to criticize perceived over-sensitivity or censorship of speech, dismissing genuine attempts to foster inclusivity and sensitivity to diverse perspectives as excessive or unnecessary.

Prejudice is a preconceived opinion or attitude, usually negative, formed without sufficient knowledge, understanding, or reason, often directed towards individuals or groups based on their identity, such as race, religion, gender, or other characteristics. It involves making unfair judgments or holding biased beliefs about others.

Privilege refers to unearned advantages, benefits, or access to resources that certain individuals or groups enjoy solely because of their identity, often based on factors like race, gender, socio-economic status, or ability. It includes societal advantages that are not necessarily earned but result from systemic inequalities.

Set of third-party pronouns that an individual prefers others to use in order to identify that person’s gender, e.g., he/him/his, she/her/hers, they/them/theirs.

Psychological safety is a workplace or social environment where individuals feel comfortable taking interpersonal risks, speaking up, sharing ideas, and expressing themselves without fear of negative consequences or retribution. It fosters open communication, trust, and collaboration.

The process of exploring your own sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Originally intended to denote environments that fostered inclusivity and respect, the term “safe space” has, at times, been used pejoratively to criticize efforts aimed at providing spaces for open dialogue and support. Some critics use the term mockingly, suggesting that creating such spaces coddles individuals or limits free expression by avoiding challenging or uncomfortable discussions. However, this use often overlooks the genuine intent to create spaces where marginalized or vulnerable individuals feel secure, respected, and free from discrimination, allowing for more open and honest conversations.

Orientation is an umbrella term describing a person’s attraction to other people. This attraction may be sexual (sexual orientation) and/or romantic (romantic orientation).

Social justice is the pursuit of equal rights, opportunities, and treatment for all individuals within society, aiming to address and rectify systemic inequalities, discrimination, and oppression based on various factors such as race, gender, class, and more. It advocates for fairness, equity, and the dismantling of barriers that hinder equal access to resources and opportunities.

A stereotype is a widely held but oversimplified and often inaccurate belief or idea about a particular group of people. It involves making assumptions or generalizations based on characteristics like race, gender, nationality, or other factors, without considering individual differences within the group. Stereotypes can perpetuate bias and contribute to discrimination.

Refers to people who are attracted to the opposite sex, e.g., men sexually attracted to women.

Structural inequality refers to systemic disparities, biases, or imbalances embedded within social, economic, or political structures that result in unequal outcomes or opportunities for different groups in society. These inequalities are often deeply rooted in institutions, policies, or cultural norms and can perpetuate disadvantages for marginalized groups.

Tokenism is the practice of including individuals from underrepresented groups in a superficial or symbolic way, often to give the appearance of diversity without meaningful inclusion or genuine representation. It involves using a few individuals as tokens to showcase diversity without addressing systemic issues or providing equal opportunities for meaningful participation or influence.

An umbrella term for people whose gender identity and/or expression differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. Being transgender does not imply any specific sexual orientation.

The steps a trans person may take to live in the gender with which they identify. Each person’s transition will involve different things. For some, this involves medical intervention, such as hormone therapy and surgeries, but not all trans people want or are able to have this.

A fear or dislike of a person based on the fact they are Trans.