Transgender is an umbrella term that refers to individuals whose gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. Gender identity is a deeply-held sense of being male, female, or another gender, and it may or may not align with the sex assigned at birth based on physical characteristics.

For example, a person who was assigned female at birth but identifies and lives as a man is a transgender man. Similarly, a person who was assigned male at birth but identifies and lives as a woman is a transgender woman. Some individuals may identify as non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid, or other gender identities that do not fit within the traditional binary of male and female.

It’s essential to recognize that gender identity is diverse and that individuals may express their gender in various ways. Being transgender is a natural variation of human gender expression, and each person’s experience of their gender identity is unique and valid.

It’s crucial to use respectful language and honor individuals’ self-identified gender and pronouns to create an inclusive and supportive environment for transgender people.