LGBTQIA+

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  3. Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does LGBTQ2SIA+ stand for?

Great question! LGBTQ2SIA+ is an inclusive acronym that represents a diverse range of gender identities and sexual orientations. It stands for:

  • Lesbian: A woman who is romantically, emotionally, and/or sexually attracted to other women.
  • Gay: A man who is romantically, emotionally, and/or sexually attracted to other men. This term can also be used to refer to people of any gender who are primarily attracted to the same gender.
  • Bisexual: A person who is romantically, emotionally, and/or sexually attracted to more than one gender.
  • Transgender: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity is different from the sex they were assigned at birth.
  • Queer: A term that can be used as an umbrella term for sexual and gender expansive people who are not heterosexual or cisgender. It can also be used as a specific identity by some individuals.
  • Two-Spirit (2S): A term used by some Indigenous people to describe individuals who embody both masculine and feminine spirits. This term has deep cultural and historical significance and is specific to Indigenous cultures.
  • Intersex: A person born with sex characteristics (such as chromosomes, gonads, or genitals) that do not fit typical binary notions of male or female bodies.
  • Asexual: A person who does not experience sexual attraction or has little to no interest in sexual activity.
  • Plus (+): This symbol acknowledges that there are many other diverse gender identities and sexual orientations beyond those explicitly listed.

For a more in-depth look at these and other identities, please see the Human Rights Campaign Glossary.

What’s the difference between sex, gender, sexuality, and gender expression?

Understanding these terms is key! Here's a breakdown based on information from the Human Rights Campaign:

  • Sex assigned at birth: The sex, male, female or intersex, that a doctor or midwife uses to describe a child at birth based on their external anatomy.
  • Gender identity: One's innermost concept of self as male, female, a blend of both or neither – how individuals perceive themselves and what they call themselves. One's gender identity can be the same or different from their sex assigned at birth.
  • Sexuality: An inherent or immutable enduring emotional, romantic or sexual attraction to other people. Note: an individual’s sexual orientation is independent of their gender identity.
  • Gender expression: The external appearance of one's gender identity, usually expressed through behavior, clothing, body characteristics or voice, and which may or may not conform to socially defined behaviors and characteristics typically associated with being either masculine or feminine.

What pronouns should I use if I’m unsure?

Great question! When you're unsure of someone's pronouns, the most respectful approach is to avoid using pronouns altogether until you know for sure. Here are a couple of friendly ways to ask:

  • "Hi, my name is [Your Name], and my pronouns are [Your Pronouns]. What are your name and pronouns?"
  • "To make sure I address you correctly, could you tell me what pronouns you use?"

Here is a helpful article with more information on this topic.

Have LGBTQ2SIA+ people always existed?

Absolutely! People with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities have been part of human history across cultures and throughout time. You can explore this rich history further on this website.

What resources and support services are available for LGBTQ2SIA+ students who are coming out?

Coming out is a personal journey that can bring both joy and challenges. To support you through this process, here are some resources created by The Trevor Project’s “Coming Out” Handbook.

What resources and support services are available for transgender students who are transitioning?

North Seattle College is committed to supporting our transgender students. We've compiled a list of helpful resources in our Gender Affirming section on our webpage.

Is North Seattle College an inclusive campus for LGBTQ2SIA+ students?

North Seattle College demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive campus environment for LGBTQ2SIA+ students through a variety of initiatives and resources. The presence of an online LGBTQIA+ Resource Hub, all-gender restrooms, the Queer/Trans Cooperative, and Belinda's Closet are tangible examples of the college's efforts to create a welcoming and affirming space. Recognition as a leading community college for LGBTQ+ inclusion by Campus Pride also speaks to the progress made.

However, it's crucial to acknowledge that the journey towards full inclusivity is ongoing. Therefore, while North Seattle College has established a foundation and continues to implement valuable resources, we recognize that sustained effort and ongoing evaluation are essential to ensure that the campus truly meets the diverse needs of all its LGBTQ2SIA+ students—and that there is always more work to be done to foster an even more inclusive and equitable environment.

Are there any LGBTQ+ clubs or organizations on campus?

Yes, North Seattle College has an official student affinity group called the Queer/Trans Cooperative. This club serves as a central point for building a safe and accepting community specifically for the college's LGBTQ+ students and their allies. Their mission is to foster a supportive environment and empower queer and transgender students, along with their allies, to create meaningful change through an anti-racist and anti-bias lens.

The Queer/Trans Cooperative actively works to unite the diverse identities within the LGBTQ+ community on campus and provides a space for connection, support, and advocacy. For more information on clubs & affinity groups, please visit the webpage.

How does the college celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month and Pride Month?

North Seattle College actively celebrates and honors LGBTQ+ History Month (October) and Pride Month (June) through various events and gatherings. We encourage you to connect with the Office of Access, Community, and Opportunity (ACO) and the Student Leadership and Multicultural Program (SLMP) to learn about upcoming celebrations and opportunities to get involved!

Where are the all-gender restrooms located on campus?

For a list of all-gender restroom locations on campus, please visit our dedicated webpage: All-Gender and Gender Neutral Restrooms. You'll also find all-gender restrooms conveniently located in the Library building on both the 2nd and 3rd floors.

Are there any scholarships or financial aid resources specific to LGBTQ+ students?

Yes, there are several scholarship and financial aid resources available to support LGBTQ+ students. Here are a few to get you started:

What are my rights as an LGBTQ2SIA+ student at North Seattle College?

North Seattle College is committed to upholding the rights of all our students. We've gathered a collection of resources that outline your rights as a college student and as a person living in the United States. You can find more information here: Click here for more information.