What’s the True Meaning of LGBTQIA+ — and How Does It Impact Second City Outlaws?

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and the + recognizes the many additional identities that exist beyond these terms. At its core, LGBTQIA+ is about visibility, authenticity, dignity, and belonging—the right for people to live fully and honestly as themselves.

Understanding this meaning is essential to understanding why organizations like Second City Outlaws exist and why their work matters.

More Than Identity — It’s About Community

LGBTQIA+ communities have historically faced exclusion, marginalization, and misunderstanding. In response, strong networks of chosen family, mutual support, and resilience have formed. Second City Outlaws is rooted in that same spirit of community—creating spaces where people are not only accepted, but celebrated.

The organization recognizes that inclusion isn’t passive. It requires intentional effort, visibility, and leadership. By embracing LGBTQIA+ values, Second City Outlaws fosters an environment where individuals feel safe, respected, and empowered to show up as their authentic selves.

Representation with Purpose

Visibility saves lives. When people see themselves reflected in leadership, creativity, and community, it affirms that they belong. Second City Outlaws plays an important role in representation by standing openly with LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies, reinforcing the message that diversity strengthens—not weakens—community.

This representation also educates. It challenges stereotypes, opens conversations, and helps bridge understanding between LGBTQIA+ individuals and the broader public.

Impact Through Inclusion

The impact of LGBTQIA+ values on Second City Outlaws is deeply practical. It influences how the organization builds relationships, supports its members, collaborates with partners, and serves its community. Inclusion guides decision-making, shapes programming, and ensures that voices from across the spectrum are heard and respected.

By centering equity and inclusion, Second City Outlaws helps create safer spaces—spaces where creativity, connection, and confidence can thrive.

Why It Matters

The true meaning of LGBTQIA+ aligns with the core mission of Second City Outlaws: to build community, uplift individuals, and create meaningful impact through authenticity and respect. Supporting LGBTQIA+ people isn’t about politics or trends—it’s about humanity.

When people are allowed to be fully themselves, communities grow stronger. Second City Outlaws stands as a testament to that truth.