The letters LGBTQ+ stands for the words Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning and the plus symbol describes other sexualities and gender identities that are part of the LGBTQ+ Community.

Lots of people in Ireland are LGBTQ+ but because of discrimination and stigma many people do not feel comfortable coming out. It can be very hard for Travellers to come out, because of fear of being doubly discriminated against – as a Traveller and someone who is LGBTQ+.

• Lesbian and Gay – means people who are attracted to people of the same sex/gender as them. For example, men who are attracted to men and women who are attracted to women.
• Bisexual – means people who are attracted to both men and women.
• Gender identity – means how you feel about your gender, either as a woman, a man or maybe neither. For example, maybe you feel that you look like a man but identify as a woman or that you look like a woman but identify as a man.
• Transgender – means people whose gender is not what people thought they were at birth. For example, someone might be born and their family think they are a boy but later the person says that they are a girl, even though they might not physically look like a girl.

Being LGBTQ+ is okay and nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about.

There are lots of proud LGBTQ+ Travellers and it is very normal to be LGBTQ+, but it can be hard to come out to your family and the community.

There are lots of supports out there to help you.

If you think you are LGBTQ+ but do not feel ready to tell anyone remember you do not need to tell anyone in the Traveller community or your family or friends.

You should take things at your own pace and do whatever feels right for you.

You might feel worried about your future right now, but try to remember that many LGBTQ+ Travellers live happy and proud lives which are true to how they feel.

Try to find someone to talk to and to express your feelings and thoughts to. This could be a family member or close friend if you feel comfortable or safe speaking to them.

It might be helpful to speak to a support service like BelongTo or LGBT Ireland. BelongTo is a youth organisation that provides support to young people who need support in coming out.
The words ‘coming out’ means telling people you are LGBTQ+.

Always remember that you are still a Traveller and you should be very proud of who you are.

• Homophobia (prejudice against LGBTQ+ people) exists everywhere and this is true for Travellers but remember, there are lots of Travellers who do not care and are very supportive of LGBTQ+ people.
• Attitudes in the Traveller Community like everywhere are changing, so try not to worry about what other people might think.
  It is important to put yourself first and understand how you are feeling and what support you might need.
• It is very important if you are feeling under pressure to find a partner or get married that you let your parents know you need to take your time. It is also important that if you feel that your mental health is struggling because you are under stress that you reach out to your GP or other mental health services linked below.
• You can also link in with LGBTQ+ support services.