The acronym LGBTQIA2S+ represents a broad spectrum of sexual orientations, gender identities, and cultural identities. Here’s a breakdown:

L – Lesbian

Refers to women who are romantically, emotionally, or sexually attracted to other women.

G – Gay

Refers to men who are romantically, emotionally, or sexually attracted to other men. It can also be used as an umbrella term for anyone attracted to the same gender.

B – Bisexual

Refers to individuals who are attracted to more than one gender, not necessarily equally or simultaneously.

T – Transgender

An umbrella term for individuals whose gender identity differs from the sex assigned to them at birth. This includes trans men, trans women, and non-binary individuals.

Q – Queer or Questioning

• Queer: An umbrella term for people who do not conform to traditional sexual orientation or gender identity labels.
• Questioning: Refers to individuals exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity.

I – Intersex

Refers to individuals born with physical sex characteristics (such as chromosomes, hormones, or anatomy) that don’t fit typical definitions of male or female.

A – Asexual or Ally

• Asexual: Refers to individuals who experience little or no sexual attraction to others.
• Ally: Refers to supportive individuals who advocate for LGBTQIA2S+ rights and inclusion.

2S – Two-Spirit

A culturally specific identity used by Indigenous peoples of North America to describe a person who embodies both masculine and feminine spirits. Two-Spirit is a sacred and spiritual identity that predates colonial influences.

+

The “+” symbol represents the many other identities and experiences within the gender and sexual diversity spectrum, such as pansexual, demisexual, genderqueer, and more.

Resources and Support

If you’d like to explore these terms further, visit these resources:

• GLAAD’s LGBTQIA+ Reference Terms
• Michigan State University’s Glossary of LGBTQIA+ Terms

For personalised counselling and support, visit our Contact Page to connect with us at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy.

Pronouns (e.g., she/her, he/him, they/them) are the words we use to refer to someone in place of their name. Using the correct pronouns is a simple yet powerful way to show respect for a person’s identity. Misusing or disregarding someone’s pronouns can cause distress and alienation, even if unintentional.

Common Pronouns

• He/Him/His: Typically used by individuals who identify as male.
• She/Her/Hers: Typically used by individuals who identify as female.
• They/Them/Their: Used by individuals who identify as non-binary, genderqueer, or prefer a gender-neutral option.
• Other Pronouns: Some individuals use neopronouns such as xe/xem/xyr, ze/zir/zirs, or fae/faer/faers.

How to Use Pronouns Respectfully

1. Ask Politely (When Relevant):
   If you are unsure of someone’s pronouns, ask them politely, such as:

   • “Hi, I’d like to make sure I address you correctly. What pronouns do you use?”
     Avoid using the term “preferred pronouns” as it implies their identity is optional. Simply refer to them as “pronouns.”

2. Normalise Sharing Pronouns:
   Introduce yourself with your pronouns to create a welcoming space:

   • “Hi, I’m Alex, and I use they/them pronouns.”

3. Avoid Pressuring Someone to Share Pronouns:
   Not everyone feels safe or comfortable disclosing their pronouns, especially in environments where they might face discrimination. Be respectful and use gender-neutral pronouns if unsure.

4. Correct Mistakes Gracefully:
   If you accidentally use the wrong pronouns, acknowledge your mistake, correct yourself, and move on without making it a big issue. For example:

   • “She—sorry, they—mentioned this earlier.”

Using “They/Them” as a Singular Pronoun

The singular “they/them” has been used in English for centuries and is a grammatically correct way to refer to someone whose gender is not known or who prefers gender-neutral pronouns. Examples include:

• “Alex left their book on the table.”
• “They are going to the store later.”

Using “they/them” might take practice if you’re unfamiliar, but consistency shows respect and effort.

What Not to Do

• Don’t make assumptions:
  Avoid assuming pronouns based on appearance or voice.

• Don’t over-apologise for mistakes:
  Over-apologising can make the conversation awkward and put emotional labour on the other person to comfort you.

• Don’t question someone’s choice of pronouns:
  Their identity is valid and does not require your approval or understanding.

Why This Matters

Using the correct pronouns affirms a person’s identity and fosters a sense of inclusion and safety. It’s a fundamental step in building respectful and supportive relationships.

For more information, visit:

• Pronoun Guide – Michigan State University

If you’re looking for guidance or support navigating these conversations, our team at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd. is here to help. Visit our Contact Page to connect with us.

Coming out is the process of revealing one’s LGBTQIA+ identity to others. It is a deeply personal journey that can bring both challenges and empowerment. Supporting someone during this process can make a significant difference in their well-being and confidence.

How to support someone coming out:

• Listen without judgment: Allow them to share their story at their own pace.
• Respect their timing and boundaries: Coming out is a journey, and each person’s timeline is unique.
• Educate yourself: Learn about their identity to provide informed and meaningful support.
• Use affirming language: Be mindful of pronouns, names, and language that shows respect and acceptance.

For more resources, you can visit the Human Rights Campaign’s Coming Out Guide.

If you or someone you know needs additional support during the coming-out process, we’re here to help. At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy, we provide:

• Individual counselling to navigate the challenges of coming out
• Family counselling to foster understanding and acceptance

Visit our Contact Page to connect with us and begin your journey toward support and understanding.

Counselling provides a safe, supportive space to explore identity, relationships, and mental health challenges. For families, it fosters understanding and strengthens relationships.

At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy, we offer:

• Individual counselling for LGBTQIA+ individuals
• Couple counselling for mixed-orientation or same-sex couples
• Family counselling to address dynamics and promote acceptance

If you would like to learn more or book a session, visit our Contact Page to reach out.

Singapore is recognised as one of the safest cities in the world, with a strong commitment to upholding law and order. While the legal landscape surrounding LGBTQIA+ rights continues to evolve, the repeal of Section 377A of the Penal Code in 2022 marked a significant step forward, ensuring that consensual relationships between adult men are no longer criminalised. Singapore’s authorities take a firm stance against discrimination, harassment, or violence, regardless of an individual’s background or identity.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, do not hesitate to contact the Singapore Police Force for assistance.

Emergency Hotline: 999
Non-Emergency Police Hotline: 1800-255-0000

LGBTQIA+ Support Organisations in Singapore

If you need additional support, the following organisations offer resources, counselling, and assistance tailored to the LGBTQIA+ community:

1. Oogachaga
   A community-based organisation providing confidential counselling and support services for LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples, and families.

2. The T Project
   Singapore’s first social service organisation for the transgender community, offering counselling, shelter, and advocacy.

3. Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)
   A 24/7 crisis hotline offering emotional support for individuals in distress, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

4. Sayoni
   An organisation advocating for queer women in Singapore, providing emotional support and peer guidance.

5. Pink Dot SG
   A movement promoting LGBTQIA+ inclusion, awareness, and advocacy in Singapore.

Yes, several organisations offer support, including:

1. Oogachaga
   Provides counselling, support, and resources for LGBTQIA+ individuals in Singapore.

2. The T Project
   Supports transgender individuals, offering social services, counselling, and community resources.

3. Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)
   A 24/7 crisis hotline offering emotional support for individuals in distress.

Visit websites like Pink Dot SG for updates, advocacy, and events promoting LGBTQIA+ rights and inclusion in Singapore.