Describes the emotional or sexual attraction to others. Gender identity or gender expression has little to do with someone’s sexual orientation. Sexual orientation is not always related to relational identity. For many people, sexual orientation may change over time. Sexual orientation may not always reflect sexual behaviours.

The most well known terms to describe sexual orientations are: straight [heterosexual], gay, lesbian, bisexual. The word homosexual is outdated. And some people who are emotionally or sexually attracted to people of the same sex may also find the term offensive. When talking about people who are attracted to members of the same sex or gender, it’s best to say gay or lesbian. In case of uncertainty, asking what term to use it’s the best path.