What does it mean to be LGBTQIA+?

LGBTQIA+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual (plus) identities. It is a basic acronym to cover diverse gender identities and sexualities.

Youtuber Ashley Mardell’s videos has lots of information on diverse gender identities and sexualities:

Ashley Mardell has a number of videos on these topics that you can check out here and here.

If you have any questions, or need to talk to someone in a safe space about being LGBTQIA+, have a look at the following sites:

• Reach Out LGBTIQ Support Services – check out this site if you’re not sure about your sex, sexuality or gender, you’ve been rejected or harassed, you feel alone or isolated, you (or someone you know) could do with talking to someone about sex, sexuality or gender.
• QLife – discuss mental health, relationships, isolation, coming out and counselling on any other issues over the phone or online.
• Out & Online – offers a list of places to contact for counselling and emergencies.

There is also the Safe School coalition, which “provides a range of resources to help school staff create safer and more inclusive environments for same sex attracted, intersex and gender diverse students, school staff and families“. Click here to see if your school is a member (available in SA, WA, TAS and coming soon to VIC, NT & ACT).