Pride Month: The different sexualities within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum

Every year, the month of June is celebrated as Pride Month, the time of celebrating people belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community while also recognizing the struggles they’ve overcome. The month is commemorated by waving rainbow flags, taking part in parades and processions, and breaking down the stigmas plaguing the community. 

With Pride Month in full swing, let us take a look at various sexualities within the community’s broad and inclusive spectrum.

Gay 

This term is used to describe those people, (mostly men) who are attracted to people belonging to the same gender. Previously known as the term ‘homosexual’, the word can also be used by women, who wish to be identified as queer or gay, instead of lesbian. It is always best to ask which term someone prefers to use to describe themselves.

Lesbian

This term is used by women who are attracted to people belonging to the same gender.

Bisexual

This term is used to describe those who are attracted to individuals of their own gender as well as other genders. The “bi” in bisexuality does not affirm the gender binary. It suggests the duality of attraction.

Also Read: Pride Month: 5 best queer shows to binge on

Queer

‘Queer’ is an umbrella term, often used by those who find terms such as ‘gay’, ‘lesbian’, and ‘bisexual’ too restrictive. It can also be used by those people who are still figuring out their sexual orientation or do not wish to fall into specific categories.

Asexual

The term ‘asexual’ is used to describe a person who does not feel sexually attracted to any gender. Asexual people can still be romantically attracted to other people. 

Androsexual

Androsexual people are those who are attracted to masculinity, regardless of the gender of the person possessing the quality. 

Demisexual

People who identify as demisexuals do not experience feelings of attraction unless they develop a deep and romantic bond with someone.

Also Read: Pride Month: Activists who brought change for LGBTQIA community

Gynesexual

This term is used to describe those who are drawn to femininity, regardless of the gender of the person who possesses the quality. A gynesexual person can be attracted to a man who has feminine features. 

Pansexual

This term is used to describe those people who are attracted to all genders.

Skoliosexual

The term is used to describe those who develop feelings of attraction towards transgender, non-binary and genderqueer individuals.

The bottom line

The LGBTQIA+ community welcomes everyone, from all walks of life. Because of its inclusivity, the spectrum continues to grow, with more terms that aim to accurately describe members of the community without misrepresenting them.