HOME / THE COMMUNITY / LGBTQ + IDENTITIES AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION
The People_
Identities, gender and sexual orientation_
Sexual identity refers to how individuals understand, experience, and express their sexual orientation and attraction. It is a core aspect of a person’s sense of self, shaping how they relate to others emotionally, romantically, and physically. While many people identify as heterosexual, human sexuality exists on a broad and diverse spectrum that includes identities such as gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, and many others.
Recognising and understanding different sexual identities is essential for fostering inclusion, respect, and equality. These identities are deeply personal and may evolve over time as people explore and affirm who they are. In contemporary discussions, sexual identity is also understood as distinct from gender identity, which relates to one’s internal sense of being male, female, both, neither, or somewhere along the gender spectrum.
By learning about and respecting diverse sexual identities, societies can challenge stereotypes, reduce stigma, and support the well-being and authenticity of all individuals.
Introduction to LGBTQ+ Pride Flags
LGBTQ+ Pride flags are powerful symbols of visibility, identity, and solidarity within the diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and allied communities. Each flag represents a unique aspect of the LGBTQ+ spectrum, celebrating the variety of experiences, orientations, and gender identities that make up the community. Beyond their bright colours and striking designs, these flags serve as visual expressions of pride, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.
The history of Pride flags began with the iconic rainbow flag, created by artist and activist Gilbert Baker in 1978. Designed to reflect the diversity and unity of the LGBTQ+ community, the rainbow flag has since inspired the creation of many others—each honoring specific identities such as bisexual, transgender, asexual, pansexual, and nonbinary people, among others.
Today, Pride flags are flown across the world during Pride Month and at countless events year-round. They remind us that inclusion and representation matter, and they continue to evolve as the community grows and new understandings of identity emerge.
