Today, we are holding a Community Conversation with our member organizations on Zoom, and our discussion is themed on the LGBTQ+ acronym.

Here are the key insights being shared about the evolution of the acronym, its variations, and how language is shaped by identity.

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One key issue being discussed is whether the term “2Spirit” should be included in the acronym, or whether it deserves to be separate and not limited to colonial constructs of gender & sexual diversity.

By separate, we mean saying “2Spirit and LGBTQ+” as opposed to “2SLGBTQ+”

As folks reclaim identity & culture, and demand the space they deserve, we need to make sure that we are moving forward and changing acronyms to make them reflect our communities.

To keep acronyms static can sometimes keep people relegated to being an “other”.

Is the plus sign (+) at the end of the acronym inclusive or not inclusive?

Does it add or subtract lived experiences? Is it a catch all?

And does it fit in better with certain contexts than others?

Language such as “QTBIPOC” can play a role in creating spaces for Black & Indigenous people and people of colour within our community.

Terms like QTBIPOC can help people to see their intersecting identities reflected in language, which can be both powerful and important.

And since language is always changing, some older folks within our community remember a time “before the acronym.”

There also was a time when “G” was often at the beginning of the acronym (GLBT).

Moreover, for some members of our community, particularly older folks, the term “queer” may be troublesome.

Although some people have reclaimed the term “queer” it is not comfortable and safe language for everyone.

These identity-based conversations on acronyms may look different when they take place in cities vs. when they occur in rural communities.

There are also generational differences & many other differing perspectives (some of which have already been mentioned in this thread).

One piece of advice shared in our conversation was that the acronym, much like the Pride flag, is something that has evolved over time.

Keeping an open mind when it comes to changes to symbolism and language is how we stay open to diversity.