Gay

Gay, which is the term represented by the letter “G” in the LGBTQIA2+ acronym, can be defined as anyone who is sexually attracted to people of the same gender. Sometimes, people will only associate the word gay with male couples; however, this word can also be applicable to any and all same-sex relationships.

Prior to today’s meaning of gay in everyday language, the word actually had another definition. Dating back to the 19th century, the term meant “lighthearted and carefree.” The word is now the preferred term in the gay community as opposed to “homosexual.” Because of the fact that the word homosexual was linked to the idea that same-sex attraction was considered a psychological disorder until recent years, the LGBTQIA2+ community adopted the term gay as its own.

Unfortunately, not only has homosexual been used in a derogatory way, but so has the term gay, especially in school settings. At times, you might hear people in the halls offensively calling each other “homo” or “gay,” using the words derogatorily. All is not lost however, as protests and activism have played a critical role in advocating for gay and LGBTQ+ rights. In 2003, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of decriminalizing same-sex sexual conduct in the case of Lawrence v. Texas. Same sex marriage is also now legal, and despite an uphill battle, strides continue to be made for equality.