LGBTQ+
Stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, but includes those who question their sexual orientation or gender identities, and other sexual minorities. It is the most widely inclusive and a well-known acronym for the community.
Although LGBTQ+ is followed by a plus sign, remember that the plus sign is not always read by screen readers. It is therefore important to include the <abbr> tag. Because the acronym and the concept the acronym stands for is better known than the individual words from which the acronym is made, give the letters individually and spell out the word plus in the <abbr> tag.
Example: <abbr title="L G B T Q plus">LGBTQ+</abbr>
From the Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists Stylebook:
Acceptable in all references for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and/or questioning, and other sexual and gender minorities.
It may be tempting for journalists to refer to the LGBTQ+ community. In reality, it is a broad and sometimes loosely bound group of communities comprising people from all races, religions, cultures and walks of life. Referring to LGBTQ+ people is usually more accurate than defining it as one community.
There is not universal agreement on a name. LGBT leaves out many people who identity in ways that may be similar to but not the same as lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender people.
Some alternatives exist but may be less inclusive, more cumbersome or unfamiliar to general audiences and could require explanation. LGBTQ includes people who identify as queer or who are questioning their sexual orientation; LGBTQIA includes intersex, asexual and agender people; LGBTQIA2S+ specifically includes two-spirits and other sexual and gender minorities. Additionally, the order of the initials can be symbolic. Leading with L recognizes the women who have historically been overlooked or maligned. The Canadian government uses 2SLGBTQI+ to honor the two-spirit people who came first.
Writers and organizations should decide for themselves, based on their audience and intent, whether more or less specificity is needed.
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