GLBTQ: The basics
Hi Guys! I'm Maria's friend, Aimee. She asked me to help her out with this section of the website. If you need any additional information I put some of my favorite resources on the last page.
What Does Being GLBTQ Mean?
When people say GLBTQ, they’re usually talking about people who identify themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning and everything in-between. Since a lot of people identify themselves in lots of different ways, GLBTQ can describe anyone who doesn’t identify as “straight” or heterosexual.
I think I might be GLBTQ.
Discovering that you are GLBTQ can take a long time for some people, while others know when they’re really young. I always knew I felt “different,” but didn’t know why. When Maria started talking about crushes she had on guys, I didn’t understand why I didn’t feel the same way. It wasn’t until I learned about gay and lesbian people in health class that I could actually put a name to my feelings; and even then, I kept it a secret for a long time, until I was comfortable with how I felt.
Being attracted to people of the same sex as you can be confusing. But being attracted to both guys and girls can be even more confusing! People think they have to pick one or the other, but the truth is there are tons of normal people out there who are into, and have relationships with both guys and girls. Some people call this bisexuality (being attracted to both guys and girls), while others choose to not put a label on their feelings…either way is cool, as long as it feels right for you.
You don’t have to be having sex to know your sexual orientation. There are lots of virgins that know that they’re gay, just as there are lots of virgins who know they’re straight. If you’re still unsure about your feelings, don’t worry…there’s no need to label yourself right away, or ever. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed of your feelings or how you express yourself sexually. Like being tall or short, blond or brunette, being GLBTQ is just another part of who you are. Ignoring your feelings just keeps you from discovering yourself.
