Sydney Mardi Gras is around the corner, and it’s time to celebrate love, identity, and community! Whether you're a seasoned ally or just starting your journey of understanding, knowing the right terms is a great way to show support and respect.
LGBTQ+
An acronym standing for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer. The "+" represents the spectrum of identities beyond these letters. Think of it as the most inclusive party invite ever.
Lesbian
Women who are romantically or sexually attracted to other women. Love is love, and sapphic energy is everything.
Gay
Typically used to describe men who are attracted to men, but it’s also an umbrella term for same-gender attraction.
Bisexual (Bi)
Someone who is attracted to more than one gender. It’s not a phase, it’s a party with no plus-one limit.
Transgender (Trans)
A term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
Queer
A reclaimed term that serves as an inclusive umbrella for many within the LGBTQ+ community. Some love it, some prefer other labels, and respect is key!
Non-Binary
A gender identity that doesn’t fit strictly within "male" or "female". Gender? It’s a spectrum, babes.
Pansexual
Someone who is attracted to people regardless of gender. Love sees no limits.
Asexual (Ace)
A person who experiences little to no sexual attraction. Intimacy isn’t just about sex, it’s about connection.
Intersex
A term for people born with physical sex characteristics that don’t fit traditional definitions of "male" or "female". Bodies are diverse, and that’s a beautiful thing.
Drag
The art of exaggerated gender expression, usually for performance. Drag queens, kings, and performers bring the extra spice to Mardi Gras.
Genderfluid
A gender identity that shifts over time. One day masc, one-day femme, always fabulous.
Ally
Not part of the LGBTQ+ community but here to support, uplift, and fight for equality. We see you, we love you!
Polyamorous (Poly)
People who engage in consensual, ethical, and loving relationships with multiple partners. Love has no single definition.
Demisexual
A person who only feels sexual attraction after forming a strong emotional connection. Feelings first, fireworks later.
Two-Spirit
A term used by some Indigenous cultures to describe a gender or sexual identity that embodies both masculine and feminine spirits.
Pronouns
The words we use to refer to people: like she/her, he/him, or they/them. Respecting pronouns is non-negotiable.
This Mardi Gras, let’s celebrate love, respect, and pride! 🏳️🌈