How Do I Know?

The ways that people come to understand themselves as GLBTT* are as diverse as the terms we use to identify ourselves.

• Maybe you’ve always known there was something “different” about you.
• Maybe you won’t identify as GLBTT* until you’ve had a whole lot of life experience.
• Maybe an influential person will help you realize that you’re GLBTT*, or maybe a movie or a book or something (rather than someone) will spark that shift.
• Maybe you suspect that you are GLBTT*, but do not have the option of expressing or acting on this part of your identity.
• Or maybe you’ll discover your identity through experimentation, trying different ways of living and being until you find what fits for you. Maybe there will never be a definite answer to this question for you, and maybe you’ll get to a place where it no longer matters.

I’m Still Not Sure

If you’re curious, you might find it helpful to read what GLBTT* people and their allies have written about what it means to be gay, or lesbian, or bisexual, or transgender, or Two Spirit, or even questioning. Keep in mind that GLBTT* categories can be as limiting as heterosexual categories. You may understand, define, or express your identity as a GLBTT* person in ways that do not seem to fit within this population. You may find yourself a minority within a minority population.

Whatever and whoever you are is valid and should be respected by yourself and by others, although it may take time and energy and help to get to a place where you feel supported and loved exactly as you are.