A personal process that may include social changes (using a new name/pronouns), medical steps (hormone therapy or surgery), or legal updates to identity documents. Not all trans people choose or need to undergo every step. 2. The LGBTQ+ Spectrum
An umbrella term for people whose gender identity—their internal sense of being a man, woman, neither, or both—is different from the sex assigned to them at birth.
The transgender community is diverse, encompassing many identities and personal experiences.
This guide provides an overview of the transgender community and broader LGBTQ culture, covering core concepts, community history, and ways to be a supportive ally. 1. Understanding Core Concepts
The LGBTQ+ acronym represents a broad cross-cultural range of identities. Cultural Competence in the Care of LGBTQ Patients - NCBI
is how a person presents their gender outwardly through clothing, mannerisms, or hair.
Describes individuals whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. Gender Identity vs. Gender Expression:
is internal and not always visible to others.