Labels

Among our travels, research and reading, we have found that words to individuals mean different things.  For many people, that includes everyone- not just LGBTQIA+, labels are a nasty business; however when discussing the LGBTQIA+ community they may be essential to get a general meaning out to those who have no idea what all these letters mean.  I feel the need to mention that these are a societal viewpoint of meanings but it is important and respectful to ALWAYS ask the individual how they would like to be addressed, labeled, or identified.  The reason for this post is to educate those who may be a bit confused.  First, let me start off with what all the letters mean.

L- lesbian

G- Gay

B- Bisexual

T- Transgender/transsexual

Q- Queer or questioning

I- intersex

A- Asexual

There are many other groups, and I do not mean to negate them, but usually you will see either LGBT, GLBT or LGBTQIA. This has become the ‘umbrella’ by which everything has been included under.  Now let’s discuss what these mean.

Lesbians are women who are attracted to other women.

Gays are men who are attracted to other men.

Bisexual are individuals who are attracted to both males and females, regardless if they are male or female.

Transgender is an umbrella term that includes individuals who are born one sex but are the opposite sex, have had sexual reassignment surgery or those who may dress in drag.  Some common terms associated are MTF, which means male to female. This means that the person was born anatomically a male but lives, feels and is a female.  FTM is just the opposite, meaning that the individual was born female but lives, feels and is male.  A transsexual is one who has undergone surgery to become the person they know they are (again review MTF or FTM).  Those that are labeled drag queens actually have no intention, need or feeling to become the opposite sex but do however feel the need to dress in the opposite sexes’ clothing.  It must also be noted that this has nothing to do with an individuals sexual orientation and ONLY their gender.

Queer or Questioning describes those that are unsure or questioning their sexuality.

Intersex is a general term used for a variety of conditions in which a person is born with a reproductive or sexual anatomy that doesn’t seem to fit the typical definitions of female or male. Most people may be more familiar with the term ‘hermaphrodite’.  Or a person may be born with mosaic genetics, so that some of her cells have XX chromosomes and some of them have XY.

Asexual is a term generally meant to describe individuals who seek an emotional attachment, but do not seek a intimate/sexual relationship. This is not like celibacy, because that is a choice; whereas asexual’s do not have a choice in the way in which they feel.

I hope that this has cleared up some questions and provided some informational education to our readers. -Patti (admin)

Things are looking up

Lately both our founders have been working diligently in order to get this group up and going. It looks like the beginning of next year will be our GRAND OPENING (but of course we’ll keep you all updated).  In the meanwhile, the founders have continued to educate themselves and others in regards to LGBT+ issues.  We have also been able to join up with some organizations that are willing to join in to help us with whatever we may need and their full support.  This is all good news to us because we know that there is a definite need for a support group here in Volusia county.  Our services will start off aiding parents who have children who identify as LGBT+; however we are already looking to expand this to LGBT+ children and adults.  This is a long process but SO VERY WORTH IT!!! I hope that the positive and empowering post, media news, and funny posts on our facebook page enlightens you and makes your day. We do post a lot of information from other sources, but it is our belief that knowing what is out there to aid you in the process is beneficial.  If you should ever have any questions, suggestions, etc.- please contact us at transformations2013@hotmail.com.  And as always…Thanks for your support!!!

Our logo

I thought I’d share our new logo with our followers it is now our cover picture. We would like feedback on what you think. Our goal was to incorporate the LGBT flag, the rainbow, with a butterfly in the transgender flag colors.  I believe our designer has done a wonderful job and this shows that we are moving in the right direction.  Only a few more months until we can be up and running. We really appreciate your patience as we build up this organization. The business plan is in the making, but as with all good things…it takes time.