This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx

The letters LGBT certainly mean something to everyone by now. However, there are many many other letters, words, stories, and people beyond just those four. An exploration of the language we use to describe the transgender community shows its depth and complexity and why it's important to be mindful of how we talk about such topics.

Jay Irwin, Ph.D. is a medical sociologist who researches and teaches in the areas of sexuality, LGBTQ identities and health, and social causes of health and illness. He is originally from Birmingham, Alabama, and has been at UNO since 2009. He is involved in community and campus social and advocacy groups, particularly around topics of transgender and queer identities. He is passionate about allowing young people to explore and develop their identities in a supportive and accepting environment. When he's not working, he's hanging out with his partner, three dogs, and cat.