The acronym LGBTQIA2S+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and Two Spirits. This expanded acronym is used to identify different sexual orientations and gender identities. People in the LGBTQIA2+ community come from all walks of life and include individuals of all races and ethnicities, all ages, all socioeconomic levels, and from all parts of the country. Using a person's correct gender pronouns is one of the most basic ways to show your respect for their identity and demonstrate your support for the LGBTQIA2+ community.
The Stonewall Inn in Manhattan was a safe haven for members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community (especially homeless gay youth) until it was raided by police in the early morning. This event sparked a series of attribution movements stemming from the Stonewall riots that were led by members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community who were BIPOC (blacks, indigenous people and people of color), such as Stormé DeLarverie and Marsha P. The main reason why the LGBTQIA2+ community and pronouns are important is because they have a positive impact on the mental health, emotional well-being and quality of life of those who are part of the group or are allied with it. It is important to note that if you use this or another acronym in reference to yourself, or know someone who does, it does not necessarily mean that you identify with each of the elements of that community.
The LGBTQIA2+ community, also known as the Rainbow community, are people who ally themselves with the LGBTQIA2+ movement or who identify themselves as lesbians, gays or transgenders, and so on. It is essential to remember that terms used to describe gender identities and sexual orientations are constantly changing and being updated to better represent people.