: Gender identity is an internal sense of being male, female, or another gender (like non-binary), while sexual orientation refers to who a person is attracted to. Transgender people can have any sexual orientation—for example, they may identify as gay, straight, bisexual, or queer.
: The experiences of transgender people are shaped by other aspects of their identity, such as race, religion, and class. Transgender people of color often face higher rates of poverty, homelessness, and violence.
The transgender community is a diverse and vital part of broader LGBTQ+ culture, with a history rooted in advocacy, resilience, and the fight for self-determination. Understanding this community requires recognizing the unique challenges transgender individuals face, as well as the cultural contributions they make. Core Concepts & Identity