Transgender is an umbrella term used to describe a wide range of individuals whose gender identity or expression differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. The term encompasses both those who identify as a different gender from the one they were assigned, as well as those who present themselves in a way that does not conform to traditional gender norms. Transgender people may identify as male, female, non-binary, agender, third gender, or any other number of identities.
Gender identity is separate from sexual orientation. transgender people may be straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual, or asexual. Gender identity is also distinct from intersex status; transgender people may be intersex but not identify as such.
The experience of being transgender varies widely and is unique to each individual. Some transgender people choose to transition medically and/or socially, while others do not. There is no single “right” way to be transgender – each person gets to decide what is best for them.
There are a variety of terms used to describe different aspects of being transgender: