In recent years, “Trans+” has emerged as an umbrella term encompassing a broad spectrum of gender-diverse identities. This evolution in language reflects an important shift in how we understand gender itself—moving beyond binary concepts to embrace the full diversity of human experience. But what does “Trans+” mean, and why is it a more inclusive alternative to "transgender"?
What Does Trans+ Mean?
The "+" in Trans+ is critical. It signals that this term isn't limited to individuals who identify strictly as transgender men or women but includes non-binary, gender-fluid, genderqueer, and gender non-conforming individuals, as well as those who may not feel fully aligned with traditional binary labels. The term is expansive and flexible, inviting individuals to define themselves without the pressure to conform to narrow definitions.
Historically, "transgender" has been seen as focusing primarily on those transitioning between male and female identities. While this is a vital part of the trans experience, it doesn’t capture the full picture of gender diversity. The term "Trans+" allows people to find themselves on their terms without the sense of exclusion or gatekeeping that sometimes comes with more rigid labels.
Why Did the Language Evolve?
Language is powerful. As our understanding of gender diversity has grown, flexible terminology is needed to embrace everyone. The term "transsexual," once widely used, has largely fallen out of favour. It was too focused on the physical aspects of transition and medical intervention, sidelining those who didn’t—or couldn’t—take those steps. Similarly, while "transgender" has been an improvement, it too sometimes creates boundaries that don’t resonate with non-binary or genderqueer identities (Stonewall)(Mental Health America).
The shift to "Trans+" reflects a deeper understanding: gender is not about transition alone but an individual's internal sense of who they are. We live in an age where the binary framework of gender no longer applies to people's vast and varied experiences, and our language should reflect that inclusivity.
The Power of Language: How Dehumanising Terms Lead to Dehumanising Actions
Language shapes how we perceive and treat one another. When groups are referred to with dehumanising language—such as comparing them to animals or inanimate objects—it becomes easier to justify discriminatory and harmful behaviours towards them. Throughout history, marginalised groups, including trans and gender-diverse people, have faced this type of dehumanisation.
Using inclusive terms like "Trans+" not only recognises a person’s full humanity but also pushes back against the long history of using language to erase and oppress those who don’t conform to societal norms.
A tragic consequence of using dehumanising language is that it reinforces the idea that these individuals are "less than" and not worthy of fundamental rights. In contrast, inclusive language promotes respect and dignity, recognising the rich diversity of human identity(Mental Health America)(ideas.ted.com).
A Brief Look at Historical Terms
As our understanding of gender diversity has evolved, so has the language we use to describe it. Below are some terms that were once common but are now less favoured as we strive for more inclusive language:
Transsexual: A medical term used to describe individuals who transition from one gender to another, often with the assistance of medical interventions.
Hermaphrodite: An outdated term historically used to describe intersex individuals. Today, "intersex" is a respectful and accurate term.
Transvestite: A term originally coined by Magnus Hirschfeld to describe individuals who wear clothing traditionally associated with the opposite gender. Today, "cross-dresser" is a more widely used and neutral term.
Gender Identity Disorder: A clinical diagnosis once used to pathologise transgender people, now replaced with "gender dysphoria" to reflect a less stigmatising understanding.
These terms reflect a time when societal expectations of gender and medical perspectives limited language. As our understanding has grown, so has the language, which now offers more respectful and accurate descriptions of gender diversity.
The Inclusivity of Trans+
What sets “Trans+” apart is its refusal to police who belong in this category. It includes anyone whose gender identity or expression doesn’t conform to societal expectations of the binary male-female spectrum (ideas.ted.com) (Mental Health America). This is why many of us feel that "Trans+" is not just a label but a celebration of diversity.
This is not about saying older terms are "wrong"—instead, it’s about recognising that language needs to evolve alongside our understanding. The word "Trans+" ensures that no one feels left behind, whether they identify as transgender, non-binary, genderqueer, or any other identity that challenges traditional gender norms (Stonewall).
The Role of Allies
For those looking to acknowledge the broad spectrum of gender identities, using inclusive language like “Trans+” can be a way to signal openness and respect. While the term “Trans+” reflects a more expansive understanding of gender diversity, it's not about forcing change in how people identify themselves or others. Instead, it's an opportunity for allies to listen and learn, adapting language in ways that support inclusivity. If the idea resonates with you, "Trans+" offers an easy yet powerful way to show recognition and respect for the diverse identities that fall under this broad umbrella.
The shift to "Trans+" isn’t about prescribing how people should speak but rather sharing why some of us have chosen this language as a way to reflect our understanding of gender diversity. It’s an inclusive term that allows individuals to be seen and respected for who they are, regardless of where they fall on the gender spectrum. If you feel that using "Trans+" aligns with your values of inclusivity, you might find it a helpful addition to your language. Sometimes, knowing why a term is being used can make all the difference in fostering understanding and acceptance.
If your organisation is considering discussing the evolving language of gender diversity or perhaps seeking insights from a leader who has navigated corporate, feminist, and LGBTQ+ spaces with two genders of experience, I would be honoured to help your organisation during this important time. With events such as National Coming Out Day on October 11, Trans+ Awareness Week from November 13-19, Trans+ Day of Remembrance on November 20, and LGBTQ+ History Month on February 2025, now is a timely moment to engage with these vital conversations. Email me cynthiafortlage@cynthiafortlage.com.
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