Definition/Background

LGBT is the commonly used acronym for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender. Using this acronym makes writing and talking about the movement much simpler in general discussion.

It is not uncommon to see people or organizations use GLBT or BLGT, etc. Others add additional letters such as I (Intersexed), Q (Queer or Questioning), A (Asexual), S (Straight Ally), and/or P (pansexual or polyamorous).

Issues

In the last several decades the LGBT Rights Movement has picked up a lot of traction, with a number of issues and legislation arising to both protect and discriminate against this population:

Protections

- civil unions (Vermont, Connecticut, New Jersey)
- marriage (only in Massachussetts)
- domestic partnership registries
- employment non-discrimination legislation
-anti-bullying legislation
- housing and accommodation non-discrimination legislation
- hate crimes legislation protecting sexual and gender minorities

Discrimination

- "Don't Ask Don't Tell" military policy
- "Defense of Marriage Act" federal and legislation
- Marriage Discrimination Amendments to federal and state Constitutions
- Adoption and foster care prohibition legislation in nearly every state

Additional Links

Wikipedia: LGBT