Photo by Jimmy Turner
Want to learn more about the LGBTQ community, but are confounded by the expressions? Questioning, coming out or just unsure? Confused on the meaning of terms like cisheteronormativity and transmisogynoir? Not sure of the difference between polyamorous and polysexual? Ever wonder, what’s with all the acronyms?
If the answer to any of the above is “yes,” then this guide is for you. I am happy to be introducing and creating a weekly word guide to better help you communicate and understand phrases and ideas within and about the LGBTQ community.
Color Symbolism — Lavender
Aside from my personal love of purples, there are a few reasons lavender represents the LGBTQ community.
– Historically, before the color pink and the use of the rainbow, it had been associated with the LBGTQ community. It is a blend of the traditionally gender-identified colors pink and blue, blurring the lines, subverting and challenging gender norms.
– Lavender is a shade of purple, which has an association with royalty, and our community is full of queens, kings and other fabulous titles.
– Let’s remember, the purple stripe on the rainbow flag symbolizes the spirit of the LGBTQ community. Recently, shades of purple have been worn to for Spirit Day to support LGBTQ youth and spread the awareness in hopes to end bullying.
– Lavender roses are associated with love at first sight and we know the LGBTQ community is all about the love!
With this glossary, and it’s upcoming weekly entries, I hope to aid you in communicating within (and outside) the LGBTQ community, whether you are just questioning, coming out or wanting to be a better ally to the community. If you have any questions or terms you’d like to be addressed, leave a comment or contact me at bipanfluidinfo@gmail.com.
Please note: It’s important to always respect people’s desired self identifications. Avoid making assumptions about another person’s identity based on that person’s appearance. If unsure, it is always best to ask people how they identify, what pronouns they prefer, and to respect their desire to identify using their chosen terminology.
C. Violette is a student, aspiring artist and a D-FW native. She uses a myriad of terms to describe her orientation including “queer,” “fluid,” “bi” and “nonmonosexual/plurisexual.”