LGBTQ Multiple Identities Terminology

Berdache - A generic term used to refer to a third gender person (woman-living- man). The term ‘berdache’ is generally rejected as inappropriate and offensive by Native Peoples because it is a term that was assigned by European settlers to differently gendered Native Peoples. Appropriate terms vary by tribe and include: ‘one-spirit’, ‘two- spirit’, and ‘wintke.’

Down Low - Commonly associated with hyper-masculinized Black and Latino men that do not connect with a White and stereotypical feminized Gay identity. Popular media has unfortunately made down low individuals the scapegoat for HIV transmission.

Same Gender Loving – A term sometimes used by members of the African- American / Black community to express an alternative sexual orientation without relying on terms and symbols of European descent. The term emerged in the early 1990's with the intention of offering Black women who love women and Page 7Black men who love men a voice, a way of identifying and being that resonated with the uniqueness of Black culture in life. (Sometimes abbreviated as ‘SGL’.)

Stud — An African-American and/or Latina masculine lesbian. Also known as ‘butch’ or ‘aggressive’.

Two-Spirited – Native persons who have attributes of both genders, have distinct gender and social roles in their tribes, and are often involved with mystical rituals (shamans). Their dress is usually mixture of male and female articles and they are seen as a separate or third gender. The term ‘two-spirit’ is usually considered to specific to the Zuni tribe. Similar identity labels vary by tribe and include ‘one-spirit’ and ‘wintke’.

Additional Cultural Labels and Terms from the Prezi: A Global Tour of Gender & Sexual Diversity

 Liminal Genders in Polynesia: "Mahu" in Hawaii & Tahiti  Transgender Males in Thailand: “Kathoey”  Transgender Males in the Philippines: “Bayot/Bantut/Bakla”  United States: Ballroom Culture  Brazil: Travesti Link to Prezi: http://go.uis.edu/SafeZoneGlobal