SOGI vs. LGBT: Understanding the Difference
1. SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity)
SOGI is a broad, inclusive term that refers to all people’s sexual orientation and gender identity, not just those who are LGBTQ+. It is often used in legal, policy, and human rights contexts to promote equal rights and non-discrimination.
- Sexual Orientation (SO): Who a person is romantically or sexually attracted to (e.g., heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, asexual).
- Gender Identity (GI): A persons internal sense of their gender (e.g., male, female, non-binary, transgender).
SOGI applies to everyone, not just LGBTQ+ individuals. Even heterosexual and cisgender people have a sexual orientation and gender identity.
2. LGBT (or LGBTQIA+)
LGBT is a community-specific acronym representing people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and more. It specifically refers to non-heterosexual and non-cisgender individuals.
Why SOGI Matters
SOGI is used in international human rights discussions to ensure equal protection for everyone, rather than focusing solely on the LGBTQ+ community. Many governments, the UN, and organizations like Amnesty International use SOGI in anti-discrimination laws and policies.
Conclusion
- LGBT refers to a specific community of non-heterosexual and non-cisgender people.
- SOGI is a neutral, legal, and human rights framework that recognizes everyone’s sexual orientation and gender identity, including heterosexual and cisgender people.