What does LGBTQ+ mean?

LGBTQ+ is one of many acronyms used to describe members of the queer community. These are people who typically do not identify as heterosexual or cisgender, though there is a wide variety of identities held by this community.

To understand this community, there are some key terms  you should know:
  • Gender Identity: this is the gender you feel you belong to, regardless of what you wear.
  • Gender Expression: this is how you choose to express yourself, in clothing, hairstyle, or makeup/accessories.
  • Attraction: this is the way you feel attracted to other people, or whether you feel romantic attraction at all
  • Sex: This is your biological manifestation of sex, as determined by your DNA

For more information on how these identities are manifested, please visit https://www.genderbread.org/.

LGBTQ+ statistics

  • In 2019, 11.8% of students in Utah identified as something other than heterosexual (1.5% gay or lesbian, 5.4% bisexual, and 4.9% unsure/other).
  • One third of LGBTQ+ people identify themselves as people of color.
  • 15% of LGBTQ+ teens report having a disability.
  • LGBTQ+ students are twice as likely to report feeling sad every day during the last two weeks.
  • LGBTQ+ students are three times as likely to report having seriously considered suicide.
  • 20-40% of all homeless youth are members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Resources for LGBTQ+ students and families

"​Utah Pride unites, empowers and celebrates Utah’s diverse LGBTQ+ community by providing a safe and welcoming space for education, partnerships, services and events which advance our collective health, wellness and success."
"The Trevor Project offers accredited life-saving, life-affirming programs and services to LGBTQ youth that create safe, accepting and inclusive environments over the phone, online and through text."
"Every student has the right to a safe, supportive, and LGBTQ-inclusive K-12 education. We are a national network of educators, students, and local GLSEN Chapters working to make this right a reality."
"For the last decade, we’ve been helping people like you embrace their authentic selves. Our goal is to make that journey more joyous by empowering you through the stories of others who have shared your experience. Whether you need inspiration, help, or community, we are here for you. You are more powerful than you realize."
"The Family Acceptance Project® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative that works to prevent health and mental health risks for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV – in the context of their families, cultures and faith communities."
"Strong Family Alliance has a simple mission – to save lives and preserve families by supporting parents and children coming out. We help you understand what to expect and how to keep your family strong and safe."
"The PFLAG Chapter Network--with over 400 chapters across the country--provides confidential peer support, education, and advocacy to LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies. PFLAG chapters are in communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. "

You can contact the Utah County chapter at [email protected].

How parents can help