Transgender Glossary: A Developing Language for Gender Diversity

Welcome to the Language of Gender Diversity

Are you curious about expanding your knowledge of gender identities and fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences of others? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, I will provide a thorough examination of some of the most common gender identity terms and their definitions. This comprehensive guide is specifically designed for those who are just beginning their journey to explore and comprehend the complexities of gender identity. Maybe you’re questioning your gender. Maybe you’re the parent of a nonbinary teen. Whatever the case may be for you, I want you to feel welcome here. So, without further delay, let’s embark on this enlightening journey together.

The Essential List of Transgender Words

• Affirmation: Experiencing positive recognition and validation of one’s gender identity from others, such as being addressed by the correct name and pronouns.
• Agency: The capacity of individuals to make their own choices, and decisions, and take action in accordance with their own desires, goals, and values. For transgender individuals, agency is particularly important in determining their gender identity, pronouns, and the steps they choose to take during their transition process. Respecting and affirming a transgender person’s agency contributes to their overall well-being and sense of autonomy.
• Authenticity: Feeling aligned with one’s true gender identity and being able to express it genuinely without fear of judgment or discrimination.
• Body Confidence: Experiencing increased comfort and satisfaction with one’s body, especially when it aligns more closely with one’s gender identity.
• Chosen Name/Name Used: The name an individual selects for themselves and prefers others to use when addressing or referring to them. This chosen name may differ from the name appearing on the person’s identification or insurance documents. It is important to respect and use a person’s chosen name to demonstrate understanding and support for their gender identity and self-expression.
• Cisgender – A descriptor for individuals whose gender identity aligns with the biological sex they were assigned at birth. Cisgender individuals typically do not experience gender dysphoria and might not encounter the same challenges as transgender individuals, although they may still grapple with societal norms and expectations surrounding gender roles.
• Gender Dysphoria – The distress experienced by individuals whose gender identity does not align with their biological sex. This incongruence can lead to psychological and emotional discomfort, which may be alleviated through various means, such as gender-affirming therapies, social transition, or medical interventions.
• Gender Euphoria – A positive emotional experience or sense of affirmation that occurs when a person’s gender identity, expression, or perception by others aligns with their true self. Gender euphoria can manifest in various ways, such as feelings of happiness, contentment, or excitement when someone’s appearance, pronouns, or social interactions reflect their authentic gender identity. This term highlights the empowering and validating aspects of embracing one’s genuine gender experience, in contrast to gender dysphoria, which focuses on the distress caused by a disconnect between one’s gender identity and assigned sex.
• Gender Expression – The way in which an individual outwardly manifests their gender through aspects such as clothing, hairstyles, body language, and behaviour. Gender expression is influenced by personal preferences, cultural norms, and societal expectations, and may vary across different contexts or over time. It is important to acknowledge that an individual’s gender expression may not necessarily correspond with their gender identity.
• Gender Fluidity: The ability to move between different gender identities or expressions, recognizing that gender is not fixed or static but can evolve over time.
• Gender Identity – An individual’s innate sense of their own gender, which may be male, female, a blend of both, or something entirely distinct. Gender identity is an intrinsic aspect of a person’s self-concept and is influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.
• Personal Growth: The ongoing process of self-discovery and personal development that can occur throughout the gender transition journey, leading to increased self-awareness, self-confidence, and overall well-being.
• Pronouns – Words used in language to refer to someone in the third person without using their name. Traditional pronouns are gendered (he/him/his for males, she/her/hers for females), but gender-neutral and neopronouns are increasingly being used to respect and affirm individuals’ gender identities (e.g., they/them/theirs, ze/hir/hirs, etc.).
• Queer: An inclusive umbrella term used by individuals who perceive their gender identity or sexual orientation as falling outside of societal norms or expectations. Historically considered a derogatory term, “queer” has been reclaimed by many members of the LGBTQIA+ community as a powerful and affirmative label. However, it is essential to be aware that the term may still be offensive to some individuals, particularly when used by someone who is not part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Always be respectful and considerate when using or discussing the term “queer.”
• Resilience: The ability to adapt, cope, and grow in the face of adversity, which can be an important strength for transgender individuals navigating the challenges and barriers they may encounter during their transition.
• Self-Acceptance: Embracing and celebrating one’s gender identity without shame or self-doubt, leading to greater self-esteem and emotional well-being.
• Self-Care: The practice of taking care of one’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being, which is crucial for transgender individuals during their transition journey, as it can be a period of significant change and stress.
• Sexual Orientation – A person’s enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attractions towards others, typically categorized as heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, pansexual, or asexual. It is crucial to recognize that sexual orientation is distinct from gender identity, although they can be interrelated components of a person’s overall identity.
• Social Connection: Forming meaningful relationships and connections with others who share similar experiences or identities, fostering a sense of understanding, empathy, and solidarity.
• Support Networks: The connections and relationships with friends, family, and community members that provide encouragement, understanding, and resources during the gender transition process, fostering a sense of belonging and validation.
• Trans* – An umbrella term that encompasses a wide range of transgender identities. The use of the asterisk () signifies the inclusion of diverse experiences and identities that fall under the transgender spectrum, such as trans men, trans women, non-binary individuals, genderqueer people, and others who don’t identify with their assigned sex at birth. The asterisk is used to ensure that the term is intentionally inclusive, recognizing the vast array of identities and experiences that exist within the transgender community. By using “trans” as a broad term, we can create a more inclusive and understanding environment for all.
• Transgender (adjective) – Describes a person whose gender identity and sex assigned at birth do not correspond based on traditional expectations; for example, a person assigned female sex at birth who identifies as a man; or a person assigned male sex at birth who identifies as a woman. Please refrain from using “transgendered” as it is as incorrect as being “lesbianed” or “gayed.”
• Transsexual: A term occasionally found in the medical literature or used by some transgender individuals to describe those who have undergone medical gender affirmation treatments, such as gender-affirming hormones and surgeries. It is important to note that language around gender identity is constantly evolving, and some individuals may prefer not to use the term “transsexual.” It is always best to respect each person’s preferred terminology and to remain aware of the evolving language related to gender identity.
• Visibility: The representation and acknowledgment of transgender individuals and their experiences in various aspects of society, including media, education, and policy-making, which can contribute to increased awareness, understanding, and acceptance of diverse gender identities.

A Few Common Gender Binary Terms

• AFAB (Assigned Female at Birth) – A term describing a person who was designated as female at birth based on their biological characteristics. This term is often used by transgender and non-binary individuals who want to communicate their assigned sex without implying a connection to their current gender identity.
• AMAB (Assigned Male at Birth) – A term describing a person who was designated as male at birth based on their biological characteristics. Like AFAB, this term is often used by transgender and non-binary individuals to express their assigned sex while emphasizing that it does not define their current gender identity.
• Trans Man / Transman – A transgender individual who was assigned female at birth but identifies as male. Trans men may undergo various steps, such as hormone therapy or surgery, to align their physical appearance with their male gender identity.
• Trans Woman / Transwoman – A transgender individual who was assigned male at birth but identifies as female. Trans women may also take different measures, including hormone therapy or surgery, to bring their physical appearance in line with their female gender identity.

Non-Binary and Genderqueer Terminology

• Agender – People who don’t identify with any gender. They might feel genderless or not relate to the concept of gender at all. Agender individuals may desire to be seen as gender-neutral or without gender.
• Amalgagender: A gender identity that feels like a mix of multiple genders, blended together to form a single, unique identity.
• Androgyne: A gender identity that blends or falls between masculine and feminine characteristics, sometimes described as being both male and female or neither male nor female.
• Androgynous – A gender expression that combines or blurs aspects of both masculinity and femininity. People with androgynous gender expression may be perceived as ambiguous or difficult to classify in terms of gender.
• Bigender – Identifying as two genders, either simultaneously or varying between them. This can include any combination of male, female, or other gender identities.
• Demigender – A partial connection to a particular gender, such as demiboy (partly male) or demigirl (partly female). Demigender individuals may identify with aspects of a certain gender but feel that their experience isn’t fully encompassed by that label.
  • Demiboy: A gender identity in which an individual feels a partial connection to being a boy or having a masculine identity, often combined with another gender or multiple other genders.
  • Demifluid: A gender identity that is partially fluid, with some aspects of the identity remaining constant while others change over time.
  • Demigender: A broader term for gender identities that are partially one gender and partially another or multiple other genders.
  • Demigirl: A gender identity in which an individual feels a partial connection to being a girl or having a feminine identity, often combined with another gender or multiple other genders.
  • Deminonbinary: A gender identity in which an individual feels a partial connection to being non-binary or having a non-binary identity, often combined with another gender or multiple other genders.
  • Note: These terms are not exhaustive, and individuals may use other terms to describe their unique demigender experiences.
• FTX (Female-to-X) – A term used by some transgender individuals who were assigned female at birth but do not identify as male. They might use this term to describe their experience transitioning to a more androgynous or non-binary gender identity.
• Genderfluid – A descriptor for individuals whose gender identity is not fixed and may fluctuate over time or in different contexts. Genderfluid individuals may experience shifts in their gender identity and expression, which can include various combinations of male, female, and nonbinary elements.
• Genderflux – A gender identity that fluctuates in intensity. For example, someone might feel more masculine one day and more feminine the next, or they might experience varying degrees of gender intensity over time.
  • Agenderflux: A fluctuating gender identity where an individual may feel a varying intensity of genderlessness or neutral gender at different times.
  • Androflux: A gender identity in which an individual experiences fluctuations in the intensity of their masculine identity or expression.
  • Boyflux: A gender identity characterized by varying intensities of boyhood or masculinity. Someone identifying as boyflux may feel more strongly masculine at times and less so at others.
  • Demiflux: A gender identity in which an individual experiences fluctuations in the intensity of their demigender identity (a gender identity that is partially one gender and partially another or multiple others).
  • Femmeflux: A gender identity where an individual’s feminine identity or expression fluctuates in intensity over time.
  • Genderfluidflux: A gender identity that combines elements of both genderfluid and genderflux, with the individual experiencing fluctuations in both the intensity and type of their gender identity.
  • Girlflux: A gender identity characterized by varying intensities of girlhood or femininity. Someone identifying as girlflux may feel more strongly feminine at times and less so at others.
  • Mascflux: A gender identity in which an individual’s masculine identity or expression fluctuates in intensity over time.
  • Neutroflux: A gender identity characterized by fluctuations in the intensity of a neutral or non-binary gender identity.
  • Note: These terms are not exhaustive and that people may use other terms to describe their unique experiences with genderflux identities.
• Gender Nonconforming / Gender Variant – People whose gender expression doesn’t align with societal expectations for their assigned biological sex. This term can apply to transgender individuals as well as cisgender individuals who express their gender in non-traditional ways.
• Genderqueer – Another term for people who don’t fit within the binary gender system. Some folks use this interchangeably with non-binary, while others may view it as a distinct identity that challenges or defies traditional gender norms.
• MTX (Male-to-X) – A term used by some transgender individuals who were assigned male at birth but do not identify as female. They might use this term to explain their experience transitioning to a more androgynous or non-binary gender identity.
• Nonbinary – A term used for people who don’t identify strictly as male or female. Their gender identity falls outside of the traditional gender binary. Non-binary people may identify with multiple genders, no gender, or a unique gender experience.
• Greygender – A gender identity that exists outside of or between traditional gender binaries, but with a vague or undefined sense of one’s gender. Greygender individuals may experience a sense of gender that is not easily categorized or understood.
• Intergender: A person whose expression and identity falls between genders or combines genders.
• Neutrois – A gender identity that is neutral or null. Neutrois individuals often seek to minimize gendered characteristics in their appearance and may pursue gender-neutral or androgynous presentations.
• Nonbinary – A term for individuals who identify as neither exclusively male nor female, or whose gender identity falls outside the traditional gender binary. Nonbinary people may identify as genderfluid, genderqueer, agender, or other gender identities that do not conform to the binary male/female classification.
• Omnigender: A person who identifies as a mixture of several genders or as all genders simultaneously, including ones outside the traditional male-female binary. Pangender is another term for omnigender.
• Pangender – A gender identity that encompasses a wide range of gender experiences or all genders. Pangender individuals may feel a connection to multiple gender identities or expressions.
• Polygender – A gender identity that includes multiple gender identities or expressions. Polygender individuals may identify with several genders simultaneously or experience different genders at different times.
• Transfeminine – A term for transgender individuals who were assigned male at birth but have a feminine gender identity. This term can include those who identify as female, as well as those with a non-binary or genderqueer identity that leans more toward the feminine side.
• Transmasculine – A term for transgender individuals who were assigned female at birth but have a masculine gender identity. This term can encompass those who identify as male, as well as those who have a non-binary or genderqueer identity with a more masculine leaning.

Gender Identities from Around the World

• Akava’ine – A term from Cook Islands Māori culture for individuals who are assigned male at birth but embody feminine characteristics in their gender expression and identity. Akava’ine individuals may identify as transgender women, non-binary, or have a separate gender identity specific to their cultural context.
• Bakla – A term used in the Philippines for individuals who are assigned male at birth but express themselves as feminine. Bakla individuals may identify as transgender women, non-binary, or have a unique gender identity within their cultural context.
• Bugis – An ethnic group from Indonesia with a unique perspective on gender, recognizing five different categories: cisgender male, cisgender female, calabai, calalai, and bissu.
• Fa’afafine – A term from Samoan culture that refers to people assigned male at birth but embody both masculine and feminine traits in their gender expression and identity.
• Gallae – A term from ancient Roman culture referring to priests of the goddess Cybele who were often castrated and presented as women. Gallae individuals may have been considered transgender or non-binary within their historical context.
• Hijra – A term used in South Asia for people who are born with male or intersex traits but identify as female or neither male nor female.
• Kathoey – A term from Thailand that refers to people who are assigned male at birth but embody feminine characteristics in their gender expression and identity. Kathoey individuals may identify as transgender women, non-binary, or as a separate gender altogether.
• Māhū – A term from Native Hawaiian and Tahitian cultures for individuals who embrace both masculine and feminine traits. Māhū individuals may be transgender, non-binary, or have a unique gender identity specific to their cultural context.
• Muxes – A term used by the Zapotec people of Oaxaca, Mexico, for individuals who are assigned male at birth but embody feminine characteristics in their gender expression and identity. Muxes may identify as transgender women, non-binary, or have a unique gender identity specific to their cultural context.
• Nadleehi – A term from the Navajo culture in the United States for individuals who embody both masculine and feminine qualities or fulfill a unique role in their communities. Nadleehi individuals may be transgender, non-binary, or have a unique gender identity specific to their cultural context.
• Shamans – In some Indigenous cultures worldwide, shamans may have unique gender roles or identities, transcending the binary categories of male and female.
• Sworn Virgin – A term used in Albanian culture for women who choose to live as men, often to avoid restrictive gender roles or for family reasons.
• Third Gender / Other Gender – A term for individuals who don’t fit into the binary categories of male or female, used in various cultures worldwide.
• Travesti – A term used in some Latin American countries to describe individuals who were assigned male at birth but live and express themselves as women. Travesti individuals may identify as transgender women or have their own unique gender identity within their cultural context.
• Two-Spirit – A term used by some Indigenous peoples of North America to describe individuals who possess both masculine and feminine qualities or fulfill a unique role in their communities. Two-Spirit people may be transgender, non-binary, or have a unique gender identity specific to their cultural context.
• Waria – A term used in Indonesia that refers to people who are born with male traits but identify as female or neither male nor female. Similar to Hijra in South Asia, Waria individuals often form their own communities and have a distinct cultural identity.
• Xanith – A term used in Oman for individuals who are assigned male at birth but present as women in their gender expression and identity. Xanith individuals may identify as transgender women, non-binary, or have a separate gender identity specific to their cultural context.
• Note: This list is not exhaustive, and there may be other gender identities and terms that exist within different cultures around the world. It’s essential to approach each term and its cultural context with respect and understanding.

When Sex and Gender Identity Intersect: Intersexuality

• Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS) – A genetic condition in which an individual with a Y chromosome has complete or partial insensitivity to androgens, resulting in a range of physical and genital variations.
• Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) – A group of inherited genetic conditions that affect the adrenal glands, leading to an overproduction of androgens and causing various degrees of genital ambiguity.
• Difference of Sex Development (DSD) – A term used by medical professionals to describe various intersex conditions.
• How Intersexuality Relates to Gender Identity – While intersex people have unique biological characteristics, their gender identity can still be male, female, non-binary, or any other identity on the gender spectrum. It’s crucial to respect and affirm their self-identified gender.
• Intersex – People who are born with a combination of male and female biological characteristics, making it difficult to classify them strictly as male or female.
• Mixed Gonadal Dysgenesis – A condition in which individuals have asymmetrical gonadal development, resulting in a combination of testicular and ovarian tissue, or one gonad being undifferentiated. This can lead to ambiguous genitalia and a range of physical traits.
• Ovo-testes – A term for gonadal tissue that contains both ovarian and testicular tissue. This condition can occur in intersex individuals and can be associated with various differences in genital development and physical traits.
• Turner Syndrome – A genetic condition in which females are born with only one X chromosome or have an incomplete second X chromosome. Turner Syndrome can cause various physical and developmental traits and may affect gender identity or expression in some cases.
• Klinefelter Syndrome – A genetic condition in which males are born with an extra X chromosome, often resulting in a range of physical and developmental traits, including reduced fertility and possible differences in gender identity or expression.
• 5-Alpha Reductase Deficiency – A genetic condition that impairs the body’s ability to convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), resulting in ambiguous genitalia and a range of physical traits. People with this condition may identify with various gender identities.
• Note: It’s important to remember that each intersex person’s experience is unique and that their gender identity may or may not be related to their intersex traits. Respecting and affirming their self-identified gender is essential.

Pronouns: Expanding Our Language to Foster Inclusivity

• He/Him/His – Masculine pronouns are often used by people who identify as male, masculine, transmasculine, or nonbinary.
• He/they or They/he – A set of combined pronouns that may be used by people who identify as both male and non-binary, or who are comfortable with either pronoun being used to refer to them.
• He/she or She/he – A set of combined pronouns that may be used by people who are comfortable with both male and female pronouns being used to refer to them. This set of pronouns is less common, as it typically implies a binary gender identity.
• It/its – A set of pronouns that are rarely used to refer to people, as “it” is often considered dehumanizing when applied to individuals. However, a small number of people might choose to use these pronouns for themselves as a form of reclamation or personal preference.
• She/Her/Hers – Feminine pronouns are often used by people who identify as female, feminine, transfeminine, or nonbinary.
• She/they or They/she – A set of combined pronouns that may be used by people who identify as both female and non-binary, or who are comfortable with either pronoun being used to refer to them.
• They/Them/Theirs – Gender-neutral pronouns used by people who don’t identify exclusively as male or female or prefer not to use gendered pronouns.
• Ze/Hir/Hirs: Pronouns that correspond with the traditional pronouns mentioned above (e.g., he/him/his, or she/her/hers). While not commonly used, they may be used to describe a person who doesn’t identify within the gender binary.
• Note: Other combined pronoun sets may exist, as language and pronoun usage continue to evolve. It’s essential to respect and use the pronouns preferred by each individual, regardless of the combination they choose.

It’s important to respect people’s pronouns and use the pronouns they express to you. If you’re unsure about someone’s pronouns, it’s always best to ask politely, “What are your pronouns?” or introduce yourself with your pronouns as an example, e.g., “Hi, I’m Alex, and my pronouns are they/them. What about you?”

A Brief History of Neopronouns and Some Common Terms

Introducing Neopronouns Neopronouns are innovative personal pronouns that serve as alternatives to traditional third-person singular pronouns. Deriving from the prefix “neo-“, meaning new or modern, the term “neopronouns” has been in circulation for a number of years, though its exact origin remains unclear. English pronouns belong to a closed word class, indicating that their meanings remain constant and new words are seldom added. Consequently, neopronouns are typically not officially acknowledged within their respective languages. Nevertheless, some dictionaries have started to incorporate new gender-neutral pronouns.

Neopronouns do not inherently correspond to any specific gender identity. Although less prevalent, neopronouns can be employed in spoken and written language, just like conventional personal pronouns. A 2020 study by The Trevor Project revealed that 4% of around 40,000 LGBTQIA+ youth utilized neopronouns, with 1% adopting “ze/zir/zirs.”

Individuals who use neopronouns might also have “auxiliary pronouns” like he/him, she/her, or they/them. These pronouns serve as alternatives in situations where neopronouns are not suitable, such as for people with learning disabilities or when language barriers exist. The term “auxiliary pronouns” has been used within the community since 2014.

Historical Overview In his 1920 novel, A Voyage to Arcturus, David Lindsay introduced the pronoun “a” for his fictional alien race, who were “born from the air and of a third sex.” In 1970, Mary Orovan published a pamphlet called Humanizing English, initially proposing the use of “co” as a third-person neutral pronoun, and later suggesting “e” in subsequent publications. The Twin Oaks community in Virginia currently uses the “co” pronoun as a neutral pronoun in legal policies.

The pronouns “ve/vir/vis” emerged in the early 1970s, with their earliest recorded use in the May 1970 issue of Everywoman. These pronouns were later featured in The Bone People (1984) by Keri Hulme, and Greg Egan’s novels Distress (1995) and Diaspora (1998).

In 2018, the Oxford English Dictionary included the pronoun “ze,” followed by “hir” and “zir” in 2019. In 2021, Instagram introduced an optional “pronouns” field for user profiles, which included several neopronoun sets such as “co/cos”, “e/em/eir”, “fae/faer”, “per/pers”, and “mer/mers.” This explicit inclusion of neopronouns signifies a growing awareness of neopronouns among both the general public and businesses.

• Fae/Faer/Faers – A set of gender-neutral neopronouns, pronounced “fay,” “fair,” and “fairs.”
• E/Em/Eirs – A set of gender-neutral neopronouns, pronounced “ee,” “em,” and “airs.”
• Ey/Em/Eirs – A set of gender-neutral neopronouns, pronounced “ay,” “em,” and “airs.”
• Thon/Thons – A set of gender-neutral neopronouns, pronounced “thon” and “thons,” derived from “that one.”
• Xe/Xem/Xyrs – A set of gender-neutral neopronouns, pronounced “zee,” “zem,” and “zeers.”
• Ze/Hir/Hirs – A set of gender-neutral neopronouns, pronounced “zee,” “here,” and “heres.”
• Ze/Zir/Zirs – Another set of gender-neutral neopronouns, pronounced “zee,” “zeer,” and “zeers.”

Using someone’s correct pronouns is a sign of respect and acknowledges their gender identity. Always be open to learning and adapting to new pronouns, and remember that mistakes may happen, but the key is to learn from them and strive for understanding and empathy.

Gender Transition Terminology

• FTM (Female-to-Male) – A transgender person who was assigned female at birth but identifies as male. They may undergo medical interventions, such as hormone therapy or surgeries, to align their physical appearance with their gender identity. However, not all FTM individuals choose to undergo medical transition.
• Gender Affirmation: The journey of acknowledging, embracing, and expressing one’s authentic gender identity through various means. This process may involve a combination of social, legal, and/or medical changes, depending on an individual’s unique needs and desires. Examples of gender affirmation steps may include altering one’s clothing style and hairstyle, pursuing gender-affirming surgeries, or updating one’s name and sex designation on legal documents. By engaging in gender affirmation, individuals can more accurately represent their true selves and foster a sense of self-validation and empowerment.
• Gender-Affirming Care – A comprehensive approach to supporting the well-being of transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals by acknowledging and respecting their gender identity. Gender-affirming care can include mental health counselling, hormone therapy, or surgical interventions, depending on each person’s unique needs and desires.
  • Gender-Affirming Counselling: Professional mental health support that assists individuals in exploring and understanding their gender identity, as well as addressing any emotional or psychological challenges related to their transition.
  • Gender-Affirming Endocrinology: The branch of medical care specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of hormonal imbalances related to gender-affirming hormone therapy.
  • Gender-Affirming Fertility Services: Reproductive healthcare that assists transgender individuals in preserving their fertility or navigating family planning options, such as sperm banking, egg freezing, or surrogacy.
  • Gender-Affirming Gynecology/Urology: Medical care that addresses the unique gynecological or urological needs of transgender individuals, including routine checkups, cancer screenings, and addressing any issues related to gender-affirming surgeries.
  • Gender-Affirming Mental Health Services: Mental health support tailored to the unique needs and experiences of transgender individuals, including counselling, therapy, and support groups.
  • Gender-Affirming Pediatrics: Medical care for transgender children and adolescents, focusing on providing age-appropriate support, guidance, and interventions, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy when appropriate.
  • Gender-Affirming Primary Care: Comprehensive healthcare services that address the overall health and well-being of transgender individuals, including preventive care, routine checkups, and the management of chronic conditions.
  • Gender-Affirming Speech and Language Therapy: Support for transgender individuals in developing communication skills that align with their gender identity, including voice training, speech patterns, and body language.
  • Gender-Affirming Surgery Consultation: Evaluation and guidance from specialized medical professionals regarding gender-affirming surgical options, risks, and potential outcomes to help individuals make informed decisions about their care.
  • Gender-Affirming Voice Therapy: Professional guidance and support in developing vocal qualities that align with one’s gender identity, including pitch, resonance, and intonation.
• Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy: Treatments that facilitate the development of specific secondary sex characteristics, tailored to each individual’s goals. Hormone therapy may include anti-androgens, estrogens, progestogens, or testosterone.
  • Anti-Androgen Therapy: A component of feminizing hormone therapy, anti-androgens are medications that block the effects of testosterone or reduce its production, supporting the development of female secondary sex characteristics.
    • Cyproterone Acetate (CPA): A synthetic steroidal anti-androgen that works by blocking the action of androgens in the body, particularly testosterone, and is often used as part of feminizing hormone therapy.
    • Finasteride: A medication that inhibits the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is particularly effective in reducing male-pattern hair loss and managing hirsutism (excessive body hair) in transgender women.
    • GnRH (Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone) Agonists: Medications that suppress the production of testosterone by inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, which can help to reduce the masculinizing effects of testosterone in transgender women.
    • Spironolactone: A potassium-sparing diuretic medication that also functions as an anti-androgen by blocking the effects of testosterone on androgen receptors, often used as part of feminizing hormone therapy for transgender women.
    • Bicalutamide: A nonsteroidal anti-androgen that works by blocking the action of androgens, particularly testosterone, at the cellular level. This medication is sometimes used as an alternative to other anti-androgens in feminizing hormone therapy.
    • Note: These medications can be used individually or in combination, depending on the specific needs and goals of each transgender woman during their feminizing hormone therapy. It is essential to consult with a knowledgeable healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
  • Estrogen Therapy: A component of feminizing hormone therapy, estrogen is a hormone that promotes the development of female secondary sex characteristics. Estrogen therapy involves administering synthetic or natural forms of estrogen to help individuals achieve a more feminine appearance.
    • Conjugated Estrogens: A mixture of estrogen hormones derived from natural sources, typically used in hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal women, but occasionally prescribed for feminizing hormone therapy in transgender women.
    • Estradiol Valerate: A synthetic estrogen that is converted to estradiol in the body, which is the primary female sex hormone. Estradiol valerate is commonly used for feminizing hormone therapy and is administered either orally, by injection, or as a transdermal patch.
    • Estradiol Cypionate: A synthetic estrogen administered by injection as a part of feminizing hormone therapy. Estradiol cypionate is converted to estradiol in the body, which is the primary female sex hormone.
    • Estradiol Hemihydrate: A natural estrogen available in various forms, including oral tablets, transdermal patches, and vaginal creams. Estradiol hemihydrate is used in feminizing hormone therapy to promote the development of female secondary sex characteristics.
    • Estradiol Micronized: A form of natural estrogen that has been micronized, or reduced to very small particles, for better absorption. Estradiol micronized is available in oral tablet form and is used in feminizing hormone therapy.
    • Transdermal Estradiol Patches: A method of administering estradiol through the skin via adhesive patches that release a consistent dose of the hormone. Transdermal estradiol patches are used in feminizing hormone therapy to help individuals achieve a more feminine appearance.
    • Note: The specific type and dosage of estrogen therapy prescribed depend on the individual’s needs, goals, and medical history. It is crucial to work with a knowledgeable healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate estrogen therapy for feminizing hormone treatment.
  • Feminizing Hormone Therapy: A type of gender-affirming hormone therapy aimed at encouraging the development of female secondary sex characteristics in transgender women and non-binary individuals seeking a more feminine appearance. This treatment usually involves administering estrogen and anti-androgens to suppress testosterone production and promote feminization.
    • Conjugated Estrogens Therapy: The use of a mixture of estrogen hormones derived from natural sources for feminizing hormone therapy. Conjugated estrogens are typically prescribed for postmenopausal women but may also be used for transgender women and non-binary individuals.
    • Estradiol Valerate Therapy: A feminizing hormone therapy that uses estradiol valerate, a synthetic estrogen converted to estradiol in the body. Estradiol valerate is commonly administered orally, by injection, or as a transdermal patch.
    • Estradiol Cypionate Therapy: A feminizing hormone therapy that involves the injection of synthetic estradiol cypionate, which is converted to estradiol in the body.
    • Estradiol Hemihydrate Therapy: A natural estrogen used in feminizing hormone therapy, available in various forms such as oral tablets, transdermal patches, and vaginal creams. Estradiol hemihydrate promotes the development of female secondary sex characteristics.
    • Estradiol Micronized Therapy: The use of micronized estradiol, a natural estrogen in small particles for better absorption, as part of feminizing hormone therapy. Estradiol micronized is administered as an oral tablet.
    • Spironolactone Therapy: An anti-androgen medication used in conjunction with estrogen therapy for feminizing hormone treatment. Spironolactone blocks the effects of testosterone, supporting the development of female secondary sex characteristics.
    • Transdermal Estradiol Patch Therapy: A method of administering estradiol through adhesive skin patches for feminizing hormone therapy. Transdermal estradiol patches provide a consistent hormone dose and help individuals achieve a more feminine appearance.
    • Note: The specific combination and dosage of feminizing hormone therapy depend on the individual’s needs, goals, and medical history. It is essential to work with a knowledgeable healthcare provider to determine the most suitable feminizing hormone therapy.
  • GnRH Agonists: A class of puberty-blocking medications that work by suppressing the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, effectively delaying the onset of puberty. Common GnRH agonists include leuprolide (Lupron) and triptorelin (Trelstar).
    • Buserelin Therapy: A synthetic GnRH agonist used as a puberty blocker to delay the onset of puberty. Buserelin is administered through a nasal spray or subcutaneous injection.
    • Goserelin Therapy: A GnRH agonist that comes in the form of a subcutaneous implant, which releases goserelin gradually over time. Goserelin is used to delay puberty in transgender youth and can help prevent the development of unwanted secondary sex characteristics.
    • Histrelin Therapy: A GnRH agonist that is administered through a subcutaneous implant, releasing histrelin slowly over time. Histrelin is used to suppress puberty in transgender youth, preventing the development of secondary sex characteristics not aligned with their gender identity.
    • Leuprolide Therapy (Lupron): A commonly prescribed GnRH agonist used as a puberty blocker in transgender youth. Leuprolide is administered through intramuscular injection and works by suppressing the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, effectively delaying puberty.
    • Nafarelin Therapy: A GnRH agonist administered as a nasal spray to suppress puberty in transgender youth. Nafarelin helps delay the onset of puberty, preventing the development of unwanted secondary sex characteristics.
    • Triptorelin Therapy (Trelstar): A GnRH agonist that works as a puberty blocker by suppressing the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Triptorelin is administered through intramuscular injection, effectively delaying puberty in transgender youth.
    • Note: The use of GnRH agonists for puberty blocking should be done under the supervision of a knowledgeable healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment. The specific GnRH agonist and dosage will depend on the individual’s needs, goals, and medical history.
  • Hormone Injections: A method of administering gender-affirming hormone therapy through injections, typically intramuscular or subcutaneous. Injections are a common route for administering testosterone and some forms of estrogen. The frequency of injections can vary depending on the specific medication and individual needs.
    • Biweekly Injections: Hormone injections administered every two weeks, commonly used for certain forms of testosterone and estrogen therapy. This frequency helps maintain stable hormone levels in the body.
    • Estradiol Valerate Injections: A form of injectable estrogen used in feminizing hormone therapy. Estradiol valerate is typically administered through intramuscular injections, with dosing frequency determined by the individual’s needs and healthcare provider’s recommendations.
    • Monthly Injections: Hormone injections administered once a month, used for certain forms of testosterone and estrogen therapy. This frequency may be chosen to minimize the number of injections needed while maintaining stable hormone levels.
    • Subcutaneous Injections: A method of administering hormones through injections just beneath the skin, rather than into muscle tissue. Subcutaneous injections may be used for some forms of testosterone and estrogen therapy and are often easier to administer than intramuscular injections.
    • Testosterone Cypionate Injections: A form of injectable testosterone used in masculinizing hormone therapy. Testosterone cypionate is typically administered through intramuscular injections, with dosing frequency determined by the individual’s needs and healthcare provider’s recommendations.
    • Testosterone Enanthate Injections: Another form of injectable testosterone used in masculinizing hormone therapy. Testosterone enanthate is typically administered through intramuscular injections, with dosing frequency based on individual needs and healthcare provider guidance.
    • Weekly Injections: Hormone injections administered every week, commonly used for certain forms of testosterone and estrogen therapy. This frequency helps maintain stable hormone levels and minimize fluctuations.
    • Note: The specific type of hormone injection and dosing frequency will depend on the individual’s goals, needs, and healthcare provider’s recommendations. It is essential to follow the guidance of a knowledgeable healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective hormone therapy.
  • Masculinizing Hormone Therapy: A type of gender-affirming hormone therapy designed to promote the development of male secondary sex characteristics in transgender men and non-binary individuals seeking a more masculine appearance. This treatment typically involves administering testosterone and may include additional medications to suppress estrogen production.
    • Androgen Therapy: A component of masculinizing hormone therapy, androgens are hormones that promote the development of male secondary sex characteristics. Testosterone is the most common androgen used in this treatment.
    • Gel and Patch Testosterone: Forms of testosterone therapy that are applied topically as a gel or patch. These methods deliver a steady dose of testosterone through the skin, promoting masculinization.
    • Oral Testosterone: A less common form of testosterone therapy, taken as a pill. Due to concerns about liver toxicity, oral testosterone is not typically the first choice for masculinizing hormone therapy.
    • Subcutaneous Testosterone Pellets: Small pellets containing testosterone that are implanted under the skin, providing a consistent release of hormones over an extended period of time, typically 3-6 months. This method can be an alternative to injections, gels, or patches.
    • Testosterone Injections: A common method of administering masculinizing hormone therapy through intramuscular or subcutaneous injections. Testosterone injections are available in various forms, such as testosterone cypionate and testosterone enanthate, and the frequency of injections depends on the specific medication and individual needs.
    • Testosterone Undecanoate Injections: A long-acting form of injectable testosterone used in masculinizing hormone therapy. Testosterone undecanoate is typically administered through intramuscular injections and has a longer dosing interval compared to other forms of injectable testosterone.
    • Note: The specific type of masculinizing hormone therapy and administration method will depend on individual goals, needs, and the guidance of a knowledgeable healthcare provider. It is crucial to follow a healthcare provider’s recommendations to ensure safe and effective hormone therapy.
  • Oral Hormone Therapy: A method of administering gender-affirming hormone therapy through pills taken by mouth. Oral hormone therapy is often used for administering estrogen, though it may not be suitable for everyone due to potential risks and side effects.
    • Estradiol Valerate Tablets: A form of oral estrogen therapy that utilizes estradiol valerate, a synthetic estrogen, to promote feminization. This medication is typically taken once or twice daily, depending on the individual’s needs and healthcare provider’s recommendations.
    • Micronized Estradiol Tablets: A form of oral estrogen therapy that uses micronized estradiol, a natural estrogen. Micronization increases the bioavailability of estradiol, allowing it to be more easily absorbed by the body. This medication is typically taken once or twice daily, depending on the individual’s needs and healthcare provider’s recommendations.
    • Oral Anti-Androgens: A class of medications taken by mouth that block the effects of testosterone or reduce its production. Common oral anti-androgens include spironolactone and cyproterone acetate. They are often prescribed as part of feminizing hormone therapy.
    • Oral Testosterone: A less common form of testosterone therapy, taken as a pill. Due to concerns about liver toxicity, oral testosterone is not typically the first choice for masculinizing hormone therapy.
    • Note: It is essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate form of hormone therapy, dosage, and administration method based on individual goals, needs, and medical history. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are crucial to ensure safe and effective hormone therapy.
  • Progestogen Therapy: Sometimes used as a supplementary treatment in feminizing hormone therapy, progestogens are a class of hormones that can help promote breast development and other feminine secondary sex characteristics. However, the role of progestogens in feminizing hormone therapy is still under debate among medical professionals.
    • Dydrogesterone: A synthetic progestogen sometimes used as part of feminizing hormone therapy. Dydrogesterone is chemically similar to progesterone and may have some feminizing effects, but its role in feminizing hormone therapy is not well-established.
    • Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (MPA): A synthetic progestogen often used as a contraceptive, and occasionally prescribed as part of feminizing hormone therapy. MPA’s role in feminizing hormone therapy is still debated, and it may not be suitable for everyone due to potential side effects.
    • Micronized Progesterone: A form of natural progesterone that has been micronized to increase its bioavailability. Some healthcare providers prescribe micronized progesterone as part of feminizing hormone therapy, but its effectiveness and role in the treatment are still debated.
    • Norethisterone (Norethindrone): A synthetic progestogen sometimes used in feminizing hormone therapy. Norethisterone is a common component of oral contraceptive pills and may have some feminizing effects, but its role in feminizing hormone therapy is not well-established.
    • Note: It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate hormone therapy regimen, including the potential use of progestogens. The role of progestogens in feminizing hormone therapy is still a subject of ongoing research and debate, and their effectiveness and safety may vary depending on the individual’s needs and medical history. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure safe and effective hormone therapy.
  • Puberty Blockers: Medications prescribed to delay the onset of puberty in adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria. Puberty blockers are reversible and can provide transgender or gender-questioning youth with additional time to explore their gender identity before making more permanent decisions about medical transition.
    • GnRH Agonists: A class of puberty-blocking medications that work by suppressing the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, effectively delaying the onset of puberty. Common GnRH agonists include leuprolide (Lupron) and triptorelin (Trelstar).
    • Histrelin: A GnRH agonist available in implant form that works by inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), thus delaying the onset of puberty. Histrelin implants are usually replaced every 12 months.
    • Leuprolide (Lupron): A GnRH agonist administered as an injection, leuprolide suppresses the release of GnRH, leading to a delay in the onset of puberty. Leuprolide injections are typically given every one to three months, depending on the specific formulation.
    • Triptorelin (Trelstar): Another GnRH agonist, triptorelin works similarly to leuprolide by suppressing the release of GnRH, thus delaying the onset of puberty. Triptorelin is administered as an injection, with the frequency depending on the specific formulation.
    • Note: It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment and medication for each individual. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are crucial to ensure the safe and effective use of puberty blockers.
  • Sublingual Hormone Therapy: A method of administering gender-affirming hormone therapy through tablets that dissolve under the tongue. This route of administration bypasses the liver, potentially reducing some of the risks associated with oral hormone therapy, and is commonly used for administering certain forms of estrogen.
    • Estradiol Hemihydrate: A form of estrogen used in sublingual hormone therapy, estradiol hemihydrate dissolves under the tongue and enters the bloodstream directly. This bypasses the liver, which may reduce some risks associated with oral hormone therapy.
    • Estradiol Valerate: Another form of estrogen sometimes used in sublingual hormone therapy, estradiol valerate can also be taken sublingually to avoid the liver’s first-pass metabolism. However, it is more commonly used in other forms of administration, such as injections or oral therapy.
    • Micronized Estradiol: A form of estrogen that has been processed to create smaller particles, micronized estradiol is more easily absorbed by the body and is often used in sublingual hormone therapy. By dissolving the tablet under the tongue, the hormone directly enters the bloodstream, avoiding the liver’s first-pass metabolism.
    • Note: It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate form of hormone therapy and administration for each individual. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are crucial to ensure the safe and effective use of sublingual hormone therapy.
  • Testosterone Therapy: A component of masculinizing hormone therapy, testosterone is a hormone that promotes the development of male secondary sex characteristics. Testosterone therapy involves administering synthetic or natural forms of testosterone to help individuals achieve a more masculine appearance.
    • Cypionate: Testosterone cypionate is a long-acting injectable form of testosterone. It is typically administered intramuscularly every two to four weeks, depending on the individual’s needs and healthcare provider’s recommendations.
    • Enanthate: Testosterone enanthate is another long-acting injectable form of testosterone. Like cypionate, it is generally administered intramuscularly every two to four weeks, based on the healthcare provider’s guidance.
    • Gel: Testosterone gel is a topical form of testosterone therapy that is applied directly to the skin. The gel is absorbed through the skin, providing a steady supply of testosterone throughout the day. The frequency of application can vary depending on the specific product and individual needs.
    • Nebido: Nebido (testosterone undecanoate) is a long-acting injectable form of testosterone that is administered intramuscularly. It is often used for testosterone therapy in some countries, with injections occurring approximately every three months.
    • Patch: Testosterone patches are another form of topical testosterone therapy. They are applied to the skin, providing a continuous release of testosterone throughout the day. Patches are typically replaced daily or every other day, depending on the specific product and individual needs.
    • Pellets: Testosterone pellets are small, implantable pellets that slowly release testosterone over time. They are typically inserted subcutaneously by a healthcare provider and can last for several months.
    • Propionate: Testosterone propionate is a short-acting injectable form of testosterone. It is typically administered more frequently than long-acting forms, such as cypionate or enanthate, usually every two to three days.
    • Undecanoate: Testosterone undecanoate is an oral form of testosterone therapy. It is less commonly used due to its lower bioavailability and potential for liver toxicity. However, it may be considered in some cases, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
    • Note: The appropriate type and dosage of testosterone therapy depend on individual needs and the healthcare provider’s recommendations. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure the safe and effective use of testosterone therapy.
  • Transdermal Hormone Therapy: A method of administering gender-affirming hormone therapy through patches, gels, or creams applied directly to the skin. Transdermal hormone therapy allows for a steady release of hormones and is often used for administering estrogen in feminizing hormone therapy.
    • Creams: Hormone creams are topical formulations that contain hormones and are applied directly to the skin. They are absorbed through the skin, providing a consistent release of hormones. Creams can be used for administering estrogen in feminizing hormone therapy and sometimes testosterone in masculinizing hormone therapy.
    • Estrogen patches: Transdermal estrogen patches are applied directly to the skin and provide a continuous release of estrogen. The patches are typically replaced every few days or once a week, depending on the specific product and individual needs. Estrogen patches are commonly used in feminizing hormone therapy.
    • Gels: Hormone gels are another form of topical hormone therapy. Like creams and patches, they are applied directly to the skin and absorbed through the skin, providing a consistent supply of hormones. Gels can be used for administering both estrogen in feminizing hormone therapy and testosterone in masculinizing hormone therapy.
    • Sprays: Hormone sprays are a less common form of transdermal hormone therapy. They are applied to the skin and absorbed, providing a steady release of hormones. Sprays can be used for administering estrogen in feminizing hormone therapy and occasionally testosterone in masculinizing hormone therapy.
    • Testosterone patches: Transdermal testosterone patches are applied to the skin and provide a continuous release of testosterone. The patches are typically replaced daily or every other day, depending on the specific product and individual needs. Testosterone patches are less commonly used in masculinizing hormone therapy due to issues with skin irritation and adherence.
    • Note: The appropriate type and dosage of transdermal hormone therapy depend on individual needs and the healthcare provider’s recommendations. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure the safe and effective use of transdermal hormone therapy.
• Gender-Affirming Surgeries: Surgical procedures that help people align their bodies with their gender identity. These surgeries can include chest and genital surgeries, body sculpting, facial feminization, and hair removal, among other treatments.
  • Facial Surgery: For transgender women, treatments may include Adam’s apple reduction and procedures to reshape the nose or other facial features. Surgeries for transgender men might involve jaw augmentation or enhancement of the Adam’s apple.
    • Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS): A group of surgical procedures designed to soften and feminize the facial features of transgender women or non-binary individuals assigned male at birth. FFS may include a combination of the following procedures:
      • Forehead Contouring or Forehead Reduction: Reshaping the forehead to create a smoother, more feminine appearance.
      • Brow Lift: Raising the eyebrows to a more feminine position and shape.
      • Rhinoplasty (Nose Job): Reshaping the nose to create a more feminine profile.
      • Cheek Augmentation: Enhancing the cheeks with implants or fat grafting for a more feminine facial contour.
      • Chin Contouring or Reduction: Reshaping the chin to create a more feminine shape and profile.
      • Jaw Contouring or Reduction: Reshaping the jawline to create a more feminine appearance.
      • Lip Lift or Augmentation: Enhancing the size and shape of the lips to create a fuller, more feminine look.
      • Tracheal Shave (Adam’s Apple Reduction): Reducing the size of the Adam’s apple for a smoother, more feminine neck profile.
    • Facial Masculinization Surgery (FMS): A group of surgical procedures designed to enhance and masculinize the facial features of transgender men or non-binary individuals assigned female at birth. FMS may include a combination of the following procedures:
      • Forehead Augmentation: Enhancing the forehead to create a more masculine appearance.
      • Brow Bossing: Creating a more pronounced brow ridge to give a more masculine look.
      • Rhinoplasty (Nose Job): Reshaping the nose to create a more masculine profile.
      • Cheek Reduction: Reducing the prominence of the cheeks to create a more masculine facial contour.
      • Chin Augmentation: Enhancing the chin to create a more masculine shape and profile.
      • Jaw Augmentation: Enhancing the jawline to create a more masculine appearance.
      • Lip Reduction: Reducing the size and fullness of the lips to create a more masculine look.
      • Adam’s Apple Augmentation: Enhancing the size of the Adam’s apple for a more pronounced, masculine neck profile.
  • Gender-Affirming Chest Surgery: Surgery to either remove or construct a person’s chest, depending on their desired outcome. “Top surgery” is a colloquial term for gender-affirming chest surgery. For example, a bilateral mastectomy for masculinizing the chest involves removing most breast tissue, often accompanied by nipple areola repositioning and chest contouring.
    • Breast Augmentation: A surgical procedure that involves the placement of breast implants to enlarge and enhance the appearance of the breasts in transgender women or non-binary individuals assigned male at birth. This surgery can help create a more feminine chest contour and improve overall body proportions.
    • Breast Reduction: A surgical procedure that reduces the size of the breasts by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. This surgery can be performed on transgender men or non-binary individuals assigned female at birth who may not want to fully masculinize their chest or prefer a more moderate chest size.
    • Double Incision Top Surgery: A surgical procedure used to masculinize the chest by removing breast tissue, excess skin, and reshaping the chest in transgender men or non-binary individuals assigned female at birth. This surgery typically involves two horizontal incisions along the lower edge of the pectoral muscles and often includes nipple grafts to reposition and resize the nipple-areola complex.
    • Inverted-T Top Surgery: A surgical procedure for masculinizing the chest that combines elements of both the double incision and peri-areolar techniques. This method involves making an incision around the areola and a vertical incision down the center of the breast, followed by breast tissue removal and nipple resizing and repositioning. This technique is suitable for individuals with moderate chest sizes who may not be eligible for peri-areolar or keyhole top surgery.
    • Keyhole Top Surgery: A surgical procedure for masculinizing the chest, similar to the peri-areolar technique, but typically reserved for individuals with very small chest sizes. An incision is made along the lower edge of the areola, and breast tissue is removed through that incision. Nipple resizing and repositioning are not usually required in this technique.
    • Mastopexy (Breast Lift): A surgical procedure that raises and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. This surgery can be performed on transgender women or non-binary individuals assigned male at birth who have experienced breast tissue growth due to hormone therapy but desire a more uplifted and youthful breast contour.
    • Peri-areolar Top Surgery: A surgical procedure for masculinizing the chest that is often suitable for individuals with smaller chest sizes. This procedure involves making an incision around the areola and removing breast tissue through that incision, followed by nipple resizing and repositioning, if necessary. The technique results in less visible scarring compared to double incision top surgery.
  • Gender-Affirming Genital Surgery: A variety of procedures designed to align the genitals and reproductive organs with a person’s gender identity. “Bottom surgery” is a colloquial term for gender-affirming genital surgery.
    • Clitoroplasty: A surgical procedure that constructs or refines the appearance of the clitoris in transgender women or non-binary individuals who have undergone vaginoplasty. This procedure often involves the creation of a neoclitoris using penile glans tissue.
    • Labiaplasty: A surgical procedure that refines the appearance of the labia in transgender women or non-binary individuals assigned male at birth who have undergone vaginoplasty. Labiaplasty can create a more aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking vulva.
    • Metoidioplasty: A surgical procedure that creates a neophallus (new penis) using the individual’s existing clitoral tissue in transgender men or non-binary individuals assigned female at birth. This surgery often results in a smaller neophallus compared to phalloplasty and may be accompanied by urethral lengthening and/or scrotoplasty.
    • Orchiectomy: A surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or both testicles. This surgery can be performed as a standalone procedure for transgender women or non-binary individuals assigned male at birth, or as part of a more extensive genital reconstruction surgery, such as vaginoplasty.
    • Penectomy: A surgical procedure that involves the removal of the penis, often performed as part of a more extensive genital reconstruction surgery, such as vaginoplasty, in transgender women or non-binary individuals assigned male at birth.
    • Phalloplasty: A surgical procedure that constructs a neophallus (new penis) in transgender men or non-binary individuals assigned female at birth. This surgery often involves the use of skin grafts from other parts of the body, such as the forearm or thigh, and may include urethral lengthening, penile implant insertion, and scrotoplasty.
    • Scrotoplasty: A surgical procedure that constructs a scrotum in transgender men or non-binary individuals assigned female at birth. This surgery typically involves the creation of a scrotal sac using labial tissue and may include the insertion of testicular prostheses.
    • Vaginoplasty: A surgical procedure that constructs a vagina and, if desired, a vulva, in transgender women or non-binary individuals assigned male at birth. This surgery often involves the removal of the testicles, inversion of the penile skin, and the creation of a neovagina and labia.
• MTF (Male-to-Female) – A transgender person who was assigned male at birth but identifies as female. Similar to FTM individuals, they may choose to undergo hormone therapy or surgeries as part of their transition, but not all MTF individuals pursue these interventions.
• Stealth – A term used to describe transgender individuals who choose not to disclose their transgender status to others. They may do so for personal reasons or to avoid discrimination and prejudice.
• Transition: The ongoing process by which a person moves from the gender assigned at birth towards alignment with their true gender identity, which can exist anywhere along the gender spectrum. Transitioning is a unique and individual journey for each transgender person and unfolds over time. Some may undergo a “social transition,” involving personal and legal steps such as changing their name, pronouns, and gender expression, as well as informing family and friends, without pursuing medical interventions. Others may choose to undergo medical transition, which can include hormone treatments to alter the voice, body fat distribution, and other physical characteristics. Additionally, some individuals may opt for surgeries to add or remove gender-related body parts.
  • Emotional Transition: The process of developing emotional resilience, self-acceptance, and coping strategies to navigate the complexities and challenges that may arise during the transition journey.
  • Gender Transition: The overall process of aligning one’s life and identity with their true gender, encompassing social, emotional, medical, and legal aspects.
  • Legal Transition: Changing official documents and records, such as birth certificates, driver’s licenses, passports, and other identification, to reflect one’s true name and gender.
  • Medical Transition: Undergoing medical interventions such as hormone therapy, gender-affirming surgeries, and other treatments to align one’s physical appearance and characteristics with their gender identity.
  • Social Transition: Altering social aspects of one’s life, including changes to name, pronouns, and gender expression, as well as informing family, friends, and colleagues about one’s gender identity and transition.
  • Spiritual Transition: The process of exploring and integrating one’s gender identity within their spiritual beliefs, practices, or communities, fostering a sense of harmony and connectedness.
  • Vocational Transition: Navigating changes in the workplace or educational settings, including updating personal information, addressing potential discrimination, and ensuring a supportive and inclusive environment during the transition process.

Allyship 101: How to Be a Respectful Ally to Trans* Folx

• Affirming Spaces – Creating environments where people of all gender identities feel welcomed, respected, and valued. This can include providing gender-neutral restrooms, using preferred names and pronouns, and having policies that support and protect individuals of diverse gender identities.
• Active listening: Engaging in conversations with transgender and non-binary individuals to understand their experiences, concerns, and needs.
• Advocacy: Supporting policies, initiatives, and campaigns that promote the rights, dignity, and well-being of transgender and non-binary individuals.
• Asking for someone’s pronouns – It’s okay to ask for someone’s pronouns respectfully if you’re unsure. Simply ask, “What are your pronouns?” or provide your own pronouns as an example.
• Being open to learning and growing – Recognize that everyone makes mistakes, but the important thing is to learn from them and strive to be more understanding and empathetic.
• Challenging cisnormativity: Questioning and addressing assumptions that everyone identifies with the gender assigned at birth.
• Correcting others: Politely correcting others when they use incorrect pronouns or make insensitive comments, reinforcing respectful behaviour.
• Educating oneself: Continuously learning about gender identities, transgender experiences, and the history of transgender rights movements.
• Empowerment: Supporting transgender and non-binary individuals in accessing resources, opportunities, and platforms to express themselves and make decisions about their lives.
• Gender Inclusive Language – Using terms that do not assume someone’s gender or perpetuate gender stereotypes, such as “firefighter” instead of “fireman” or “parent” instead of “mother” or “father.”
• Inclusive spaces: Ensuring that events, meetings, and social gatherings are designed to accommodate and include people of diverse gender identities.
• Interrupting microaggressions: Recognizing and addressing subtle or unintentional comments or actions that can be harmful or offensive to transgender and non-binary individuals.
• Mentorship: Offering guidance, advice, and support to transgender and non-binary individuals, particularly in professional, educational, musical ensemble, and social group settings.
• Pronoun etiquette: Include your pronouns in email signatures, social media profiles, and name tags to normalize sharing and respecting pronouns.
• Respecting people’s identities and privacy – Don’t pressure someone to disclose their gender identity if they’re not comfortable, and never share someone’s gender identity or pronouns without their permission.
• Solidarity: Standing with transgender and non-binary individuals in their fight for equality and justice, while acknowledging and respecting their leadership and autonomy.
• Using correct pronouns – Always use the pronouns someone prefers, even if you’re not used to them or don’t understand the gender identity they’re associated with.

Understanding Discrimination Against Trans* Folx: Key Terms

• Ableism: Discrimination against or prejudice toward individuals with disabilities, which can intersect with the experiences of transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals who may also have disabilities.
• Accessibility: The degree to which resources, services, and environments are available and usable by all individuals, including trans* individuals. Ensuring accessibility involves removing barriers and making reasonable accommodations to meet the unique needs of transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Anti-Trans Legislation: Laws or policies that target or discriminate against transgender individuals, such as those restricting access to public spaces or healthcare.
• Anti-Transgender: Hostility, prejudice, or discrimination against transgender or gender-nonconforming individuals.
• Bathroom Bill: Legislation that aims to restrict access to public restrooms based on an individual’s assigned sex at birth, which disproportionately affects and discriminates against transgender and gender nonconforming individuals by denying them the right to use restrooms that align with their gender identity.
• Cisnormativity: The assumption that everyone is cisgender, leading to the marginalization and invisibility of transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Cissexism: The belief that cisgender identities are superior to or more valid than transgender identities, resulting in discrimination against transgender and gender-nonconforming people.
  • Assumptions of Cisgender Identity: Assuming that everyone is cisgender by default, which can lead to misgendering and erasure of transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
  • Cisgender-Centric Policies and Practices: Implementing policies and practices that cater primarily to cisgender individuals, thereby creating barriers and difficulties for transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals when accessing resources, services, or opportunities.
  • Cisnormative Language: Using language that reinforces the idea that there are only two genders, aligned with one’s biological sex, which can exclude or invalidate non-cisgender identities and experiences.
  • Erasure of Transgender History and Contributions: Ignoring, minimizing, or dismissing the historical and cultural contributions of transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals, leading to a lack of representation and recognition of their achievements and struggles.
  • Invisibility in Media and Popular Culture: The underrepresentation or stereotyping of transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals in media and popular culture, contributes to the perpetuation of misconceptions, myths, and harmful stereotypes.
  • Pathologization of Transgender Identities: Treating transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming identities as inherently disordered or abnormal, which can contribute to stigma, discrimination, and negative stereotypes.
  • Privileging Cisgender Experiences: Prioritizing or valuing cisgender experiences and perspectives over those of transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals, leading to the marginalization or exclusion of their voices and needs.
• Conversion Therapy: Discredited and harmful practices that aim to change a person’s gender identity or sexual orientation, often targeting transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals. Conversion therapy has been widely denounced by major medical and mental health organizations as unethical and potentially harmful.
• Deadnaming – Using someone’s birth name after they have changed their name to align with their gender identity. Refrain from deadnaming and use the person’s chosen name.
• Discrimination: Unfair or unjust treatment of individuals based on their gender identity or expression, which can particularly affect transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Dominant Group: A social group that holds power and privilege, often marginalizing or oppressing those who do not conform to its norms, such as transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Duty to Accommodate: The responsibility of employers, service providers, group leaders, and others to make reasonable adjustments to ensure equal opportunities for transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Equality: The state of being equal, particularly in rights, opportunities, and treatment, which is important in addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Equity: The fair distribution of resources and opportunities, taking into account the unique needs and challenges of different individuals, including transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Erasure: The act of ignoring, invalidating, or denying the existence and experiences of transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals.
• Gatekeeping: The practice of limiting or controlling access to resources, services, or support for trans* individuals, often by enforcing strict requirements or criteria. Gatekeeping can create barriers for transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals in accessing vital healthcare services, legal recognition, or other forms of support.
• Gender-based Violence: Violence or harm inflicted on an individual because of their gender identity or expression, often disproportionately affecting transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals.
• Gender Essentialism: The belief that there are fixed, innate qualities that define and separate men and women, which can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to the marginalization of transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Gender Identity Discrimination: Treating someone unfairly or unjustly based on their gender identity or expression, often targeting transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals.
• Gender Policing: The enforcement of traditional or binary gender norms, often through criticism or harassment, which can negatively impact transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals by limiting their ability to express their true selves.
• Harassment: Unwanted and offensive conduct based on an individual’s gender identity or expression, which can disproportionately affect transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Hate Crimes: Criminal acts motivated by bias or prejudice against a particular group, such as transgender individuals, based on their gender identity.
• Human Rights Protections: Legal safeguards that ensure the rights and dignity of all individuals, including trans* individuals, are respected and upheld. These protections can cover areas such as employment, housing, education, and access to public services, ensuring that transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals are treated fairly and without discrimination.
• Human Rights Violations: Actions or policies that infringe on the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals, including those of transgender people.
• Inclusion: The active engagement and participation of diverse individuals, such as transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals, in all aspects of society.
• Internalized Oppression: When individuals from marginalized groups, such as transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals, internalize and accept negative beliefs about themselves or their group as a result of societal discrimination and prejudice.
• Intersectionality: The interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, and gender, creating overlapping and interdependent systems of discrimination or disadvantage.
• This concept is important when considering the unique experiences of transgender individuals who may also face discrimination based on other aspects of their identity.
• Isolation: The experience of feeling alone or separated from others, which can be exacerbated for transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals due to discrimination, stigma, or lack of understanding from others. Social isolation can negatively impact mental health and well-being.
• Microaggressions: Subtle, indirect, or unintentional discriminatory actions or statements that communicate a negative message to a target person based on their gender identity or expression.
• Misgendering: The act of referring to someone using incorrect pronouns or gendered language, which can be hurtful and disrespectful to transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Oppression: The systemic and pervasive mistreatment and marginalization of certain groups, including transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals, by a dominant group.
• Outing: The act of disclosing someone’s transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming identity without their consent. Outing can be harmful and invasive, potentially putting individuals at risk of discrimination, harassment, or even violence.
• Power: The ability to control resources, make decisions, and influence outcomes, often wielded by dominant groups to maintain their position and further marginalize groups such as transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Privilege: Unearned advantages or benefits enjoyed by certain individuals or groups, such as cisgender individuals, at the expense of transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Racism: Discrimination or prejudice based on race, which can intersect with and compound the challenges faced by transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals of colour.
• Social Determinants of Health: The conditions in which individuals live, work, and play that affect their health and well-being, which can be particularly relevant when considering the unique experiences and needs of transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals.
• Tokenism: The practice of making a superficial or symbolic effort to include diverse individuals, such as transgender, gender nonbinary, and gender nonconforming individuals, in order to appear inclusive or progressive, without genuinely addressing the systemic issues that lead to their marginalization.
• Transmisogyny: A specific form of transphobia directed towards transgender women, characterized by the intersection of transphobia and misogyny.
• Transphobia: Irrational fear, hatred, or prejudice against transgender people or those who do not conform to traditional gender norms.
  • Internalized Transphobia: When transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals internalize negative societal attitudes or beliefs about their own gender identity, leading to feelings of shame, guilt, or self-doubt.
  • Physical Transphobia: Acts of violence or aggression against transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals based on their gender identity or expression.
  • Social Transphobia: The exclusion or isolation of transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals within social settings, leading to feelings of loneliness and rejection.
  • Systemic Transphobia: Institutional policies, practices, or legislation that discriminate against or marginalize transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals, creating barriers to accessing resources, services, or opportunities.
  • Verbal Transphobia: The use of derogatory language, slurs, or misgendering aimed at transgender, gender nonbinary, or gender nonconforming individuals, often to demean or belittle them.

The Limitations of “Biological Sex” and Its Impact on Trans* Individuals

It’s essential to recognize that the term “biological sex” has been used in ways that discriminate against transgender individuals, particularly transgender women. The concept of “biological sex” often fails to encompass the intricate biological, anatomical, and chromosomal variations that can arise within individuals.

The phrase “biological sex” suggests a rigid binary framework of male or female, which may not accurately represent the diversity of physical characteristics and internal experiences a person may have. This limited perspective can lead to misunderstanding, marginalization, and discrimination against transgender and non-binary individuals.

To promote inclusivity and understanding, many people prefer to use the terms “assigned male at birth” or “assigned female at birth” instead of “biological sex.” These phrases acknowledge that an external authority, often a medical professional, assigns a sex at birth based on observable physical traits. This assignment may or may not align with a person’s actual biological characteristics, their internal sense of self, or their gender identity.

• Biological Sex – A classification assigned at birth based on an individual’s physical and genetic characteristics, such as chromosomes, hormones, and reproductive organs. Commonly categorized as male, female, or intersex. While biological sex may be related to gender identity, it is crucial to differentiate between these two separate but interconnected concepts. It is important to remain aware of the limitations of the term “biological sex” and the potential harm it can cause when used to discriminate against transgender and non-binary individuals.

By choosing language that acknowledges the complexity of human biology and respects individual experiences, we can create a more inclusive and empathetic environment for everyone.

Key Terms for Trans-inclusive Anti-racism Work

• Ancestral Trauma: the transmission of historical trauma and its effects from one generation to the next.
• Anti-Asiaphobia: the active resistance against discrimination and prejudice towards people of Asian descent.
• Anti-Blackness: the active resistance against discrimination and prejudice towards Black people.
• Anti-Racism: the active resistance against racism and discrimination in all its forms.
• Anti-Semitism: the active resistance against discrimination and prejudice towards Jewish people.
• Asiaphobia: discrimination and prejudice towards people of Asian descent.
• Assimilation: the process by which individuals or groups adopt the cultural norms and practices of the dominant group in society.
• Bias: a preconceived notion or inclination towards or against an individual or group.
• Bias Incident: a discriminatory or hurtful act that appears to be motivated or is perceived by the victim to be motivated all or in part by race, ethnicity, colour, religion, age, national origin, sex, disability, gender identity or sexual orientation.
• BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour): a collective term used to describe individuals who identify as Black, Indigenous, and/or People of Color.
• Biracial: a person who identifies as coming from two races; a person whose biological parents are of two different races.
• Bullying: repeated aggressive behaviour with the intention of harming another person, often with a power imbalance.
• Classism: prejudiced thoughts and discriminatory actions based on differences in socio‐economic status, income, and class; usually by upper classes against lower classes.
• Colonizer: a person or group that takes over a territory and establishes political and economic control over it.
• Colour Blind: the belief in treating everyone “equally” by treating everyone the same, based on the presumption that differences are, by definition, bad or problematic and therefore best ignored.
• Colorism (Alice Walker): a form of discrimination based on skin colour, particularly within a racial or ethnic group.
• Complicity: the act of being involved in or aiding in a harmful action or behaviour.
• Confirmation Bias: the tendency to seek out and accept information that confirms one’s pre-existing beliefs.
• Cultural Appropriation: the adoption or use of the elements of one culture by members of another culture.
• Cultural Humility: a lifelong commitment to self-reflection and self-critique, with the goal of recognizing and addressing power imbalances between cultures.
• Ethnicity: the culture of people in a given geographic region, including their language, heritage, religion, and customs.
• Expert Power: power that is based on an individual’s knowledge or expertise.
• First Nations People: individuals who identify as those who were the first people to live on the Western Hemisphere continent; people also identified as Native Americans.
• Folks of the Global Majority: a term used to describe people of colour as a collective, emphasizing their numerical majority in the world.
• Identity Negotiation: the process by which individuals negotiate their identity within social contexts.
• Ideological Oppression: the imposition of an ideology that favours one group over another, often with the intention of maintaining power and control.
• Implicit Bias: occurs when someone consciously rejects stereotypes and supports anti-discrimination efforts but also holds negative associations in their mind unconsciously.
• Indigenous: people who are native to a particular place or region.
• In‐group Bias: the tendency for groups to “favour” themselves by rewarding group members economically, socially, psychologically, and emotionally in order to uplift one group over another.
• Institutional Oppression: the ways in which institutions and systems, such as governments and businesses, perpetuate oppression through policies, practices, and norms.
• Internalized Oppression: the acceptance and belief of oppressive messages and stereotypes by members of marginalized groups.
• Intersectionality: the recognition and examination of how different forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, and classism, intersect and interact with each other to create unique experiences of oppression for individuals with multiple marginalized identities.
• Islamaphobia: the fear or hatred of Muslims, Islam, and related symbols.
• Latinx: a gender-neutral term used to describe people of Latin American descent.
• Marginalized: groups of people who experience social, economic, and/or political exclusion and disadvantage due to their identity.
• Microaggressions: subtle or indirect forms of discrimination that often occur on a daily basis and can be intentional or unintentional.
• Multiracial: a person who identifies as coming from two or more races; a person whose biological parents are of two or more different races.
• Multiethnic: a person who identifies as coming from two or more ethnicities; a person whose biological parents are of two or more ethnicities.
• Nationality: the status of belonging to a particular nation or country.
• Normative Power: the power that comes from societal norms and expectations.
• Oppression: the systemic mistreatment and subjugation of certain groups by others, often based on social identities such as race, gender, and sexuality.
• Othering: the process of viewing and treating individuals or groups as fundamentally different from oneself, often with negative consequences.
• People of Colour: used primarily in the United States to describe any person who is not white; the term is meant to be inclusive among non-white groups, emphasizing common experiences of racism.
• Prejudice: a preconceived judgment about a person or group of people, usually indicating negative bias.
• Privilege: the benefits and advantages that come with belonging to certain social groups, often at the expense of others.
• Race: a socially constructed category that divides people into populations or groups based on various physical characteristics and ancestry.
• Racism: prejudiced thoughts and discriminatory actions based on differences in race/ethnicity, usually by white/European descent groups against people of color.
• Silencing: the conscious or unconscious processes by which the voice or participation of particular social identities is excluded or inhibited.
• Social Identity: the ways in which individuals define themselves in relation to social groups and categories, including race, gender, sexuality, and class.
• Socioeconomic Class: a system of social stratification based on economic factors such as income, education, and occupation.
• Stereotypes: widely held, oversimplified beliefs about groups of people.
• Stigma: a negative label or stereotype attached to a certain identity or behaviour.
• Superior: the belief that one’s a social group or identity is inherently better than others.
• Systemic: the ways in which systems and institutions perpetuate oppression through policies, practices, and norms.
• System of Oppression: conscious and unconscious, nonrandom, and organized harassment, discrimination, exploitation, discrimination, prejudice, and other forms of unequal treatment that impact different groups.
• Tolerance: acceptance and open-mindedness to different practices, attitudes, and cultures, without necessarily agreeing with them.
• Tone Policing: criticizing someone’s emotional expression or tone, rather than engaging with the substance of their argument.
• White Fragility: the defensive response by white people to discussions of racism, often characterized by feelings of discomfort, defensiveness, and denial.
• White Privilege: the benefits and advantages that come with being white, often at the expense of people of colour.
• White Supremacy: the belief in the inherent superiority of white people over other racial and ethnic groups, often manifesting in discriminatory actions and policies.
• Whitesplaining: a form of condescending or dismissive communication in which a white person explains something to a person of colour in a manner that assumes the white person’s knowledge and superiority.
• Xenophobia: the fear or hatred of foreigners, particularly those who are perceived to be different from oneself.

The Importance of Language Evolution and Sensitivity

It is crucial to differentiate between terms related to gender identity and those that describe sexual orientation. Words such as gay, lesbian, bisexual, and pansexual (meaning attracted to people of all gender identities and biological sexes) pertain to an individual’s sexual attraction rather than their gender identity. These terms apply to transgender people in the same way they apply to cisgender individuals. For example, both a cisgender man and a transgender man who are attracted to other men would identify as gay.

As our understanding of transgender issues continues to grow, new terminology emerges to replace outdated or offensive terms. Some previously used words have been deemed derogatory, disrespectful, or inappropriate due to evolving knowledge and societal attitudes. It is essential to stay informed about these changes and to be sensitive to the language used when discussing gender identity.

When in doubt, the best course of action is to ask individuals which terms they prefer. This demonstrates respect and understanding for each person’s unique identity and experience. By being mindful of the language we use, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

The Importance of Continued Education and Allyship

Expanding our knowledge and understanding of diverse gender identities is crucial in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. The glossary we have explored in this post serves as an introductory guide to the wide spectrum of gender identities, but it is important to recognize that this is only the starting point in your journey.

Continued education and self-reflection are essential to becoming a more informed and compassionate individual. As you encounter new terms or identities, take the initiative to learn more about them, and engage in conversations with those who have different experiences than your own. This will enable you to become a better ally and contribute to a more supportive environment for all.

Demonstrating respect for various gender identities goes beyond mere compliance with anti-discrimination policies. It involves creating a school environment, social setting, and workplace culture that values and celebrates the unique experiences and perspectives of all employees. By doing so, institutions, communities, and organizations can foster a sense of belonging and empowerment, ultimately leading to increased productivity and innovation.

In conclusion, let us all strive to cultivate empathy, respect, and open-mindedness in our interactions with others, regardless of their gender identity. By doing so, we can work together to create a world where everyone feels seen, understood, and valued.