Human beings are diverse by nature, despite social norms that tend to classify people according to their biological sex or sexual orientation. For many years, the “normal” has been considered to be the relationship between a man and a woman as we have traditionally known it. However, today we see how sexual diversity takes place in couple relationships and in the conformation of families and, despite the stereotypes that still persist, this does not make a person normal or not normal.

Although biological sex has long been used as a way of classifying society for different purposes, it does not necessarily define a person. And it is common that some people do not feel comfortable or identified by this factor. Likewise, sometimes people tend to think that some physical characteristics define a person’s sexual orientation, and this does not have to be the case.

Learn more about sex, gender, sexual orientation, diversity and the importance of respecting and embracing those who feel better about identifying in a way that differs from a physical condition.

What is sex?

These are the biological characteristics by which individuals are classified. It is defined by chromosomes, hormone levels, external and internal genitalia and reproductive organs. It is divided into two categories: male and female.

What is gender?

It refers to the social and cultural construction of the characteristics and behaviors that each society assigns as masculine and feminine.

What is sexual orientation?

It has to do with the romantic, affective, intellectual and physical attraction or liking for another person. Sexual orientations have been divided as follows:

– Heterosexuality: refers to attraction to people of a different sex than one’s own.

– Homosexuality: is when the attraction is towards people of the same sex.

– Bisexuality: refers to the attraction that is presented indistinctly towards persons of the same or different sex.

– Asexuality: refers to the absence of sexual attraction to other people.

What is gender expression?

It has to do with the way a person acts, dresses, speaks, and behaves to communicate their gender to the world and does not necessarily correspond to sex or gender identity.

What is gender identity?

It refers to the psychological and social identity of each person’s gender. Some types of gender identity include:

– Cisgender: those whose sexual identity and biological sex match.

– Transgender: people whose gender identity is different from their biological sex and, therefore, make changes in their physical appearance towards the gender with which they feel identified.

– Transsexual: refers to people whose gender identity is different from their biological sex and find it necessary to transform their body through hormone treatments or sexual reassignment surgeries.

– Intersex: refers to persons born with genitalia or reproductive organs of both sexes.

– Queer: refers to a sexual or gender identity that does not correspond to established ideas of sexuality and gender.

What is sexual diversity?

It is the possibility for a person to live his or her sexual orientation and gender identity in a free and responsible manner.

You may also be interested: What is non-binary gender?

A Movement of everyone and for everyone

As you can see, sexual diversity is present in various aspects of life and many of the concepts that have passed from generation to generation have led us to mistakenly think that some ways of identifying and living sexuality are “normal” and others, on the contrary, “are not”, which has destroyed many lives. Today it is important to look at these differences with due respect, understanding, kindness, and love.

In the #YoDigoNoMas Movement, we support and welcome all people regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation. We invite you to learn more about the Movement and join our cause.

 Also, if you feel you have been a victim of sexual or other types of abuse, remember that we offer a safe and trusting space for you to share your story and begin your healing process.