Clarifying the Three Dimensions of LGBTQ+ Identities

Clarifying the Three Dimensions of LGBTQ+ Identities

To understand LGBTQ+ identities, it’s essential to distinguish between three fundamental notions: sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Though often conflated, these dimensions are distinct and independent of one another.

1. Sexual Orientation

Sexual orientation refers to a person’s emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attraction to others, based on gender. Examples include:

• Homosexual: Attracted to people of the same gender.

• Heterosexual: Attracted to people of the opposite gender.

• Bisexual: Attracted to people of their own gender and other genders.

• Pansexual: Attracted to people regardless of gender.

2. Gender Identity

Gender identity is the internal sense of one’s own gender. It reflects a deep feeling of being:

• A man,

• A woman,

• Somewhere in between,

• A mix of the two, or

• Neither.

Gender identity is independent of the sex assigned at birth. For example:

• A person assigned male at birth can identify as a woman.

• A person assigned female at birth can identify as non-binary or agender.

3. Gender Expression

Gender expression is the external presentation of gender through:

• Appearance (clothing, makeup, hairstyle),

• Body language,

• Voice,

• Behaviors.

It represents how someone presents their gender to the world, which may or may not align with societal stereotypes or their gender identity.

Interdependence of Dimensions

These dimensions are independent of each other. For instance:

• A lesbian transgender woman has a feminine gender identity, a homosexual sexual orientation, and may have a feminine, masculine, or androgynous gender expression.

• A cisgender gay man has a masculine gender identity, a homosexual sexual orientation, and may express his gender in various ways, such as masculine, feminine, or otherwise.

Examples for Clarity

1. Conchita Wurst

The Austrian drag queen Conchita Wurst, who won Eurovision in 2014, is the feminine alter ego of Tom Neuwirth, a cisgender gay man.

• As Conchita, Tom adopts a feminine gender expression (dress, makeup, wig) while keeping a beard, a traditionally masculine attribute.

• Tom’s gender identity remains male, and his sexual orientation is gay.
  This example highlights how gender expression does not define gender identity or sexual orientation.

2. Jenna Talackova

Jenna Talackova, a Canadian transgender model and activist, identifies as a woman (gender identity) and presents herself with a feminine gender expression. She is attracted to men, making her a heterosexual transgender woman. Her story illustrates that being transgender is about felt gender, not sexual orientation.

Supporting and Respecting Individual Identities

To foster understanding and respect:

• Use Chosen Vocabulary: Always use the names and terms individuals prefer to describe their identity. If unsure, ask politely.

• Avoid Assumptions: Do not make presumptions about someone’s identity based on their appearance or stereotypes.

• Respect Privacy: Avoid intrusive or purely anatomical questions and instead focus on the person’s experiences and needs.

Why This Understanding Matters

Clarifying these dimensions helps dismantle misconceptions and conflations about LGBTQ+ identities. It fosters inclusivity and empowers individuals to:

• Understand and accept themselves in all aspects of their identity.

• Embrace their authentic selves for personal growth and fulfillment.

Key Points to Remember:

1. Sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression are distinct and independent dimensions of identity.

2. Each person’s configuration of these dimensions is unique and valid.

3. Respect and affirm individuals by using their chosen vocabulary and avoiding assumptions or intrusive questions.

4. Understanding these concepts is essential for building a society rooted in dignity, acceptance, and authenticity.