Introducing a new term: GSRD.
A colleague recently introduced me to the acronym GSRD, which stands for “gender, sexuality, and relationship diversity.” This may be a handy alternative term for LGBTQIA++. Expect to see it around.
Diversity Welcoming
This means diversity that is physical, mental, cultural, ethnic, and so forth. I believe we all deserve to enjoy our birthright of chosen enjoyments and self-agency, whether expressed in explicitly “sexual” forms or not. I strive for cultural competancy and humility but know that there is always room for improvement. I know my own disability does not grant automatic knowledge of other people’s struggles.
Nonjudgmental and Pleasure Positive
In addition, my work with you is nonjudgmental and pleasure-positive. I am here to support you in your individual pursuits of pleasure and self-empowerment.
Social Justice
I strive to understand the impacts of larger societal pressures and traumas engendered by systemic racism and personal bigotry, sexism and misogyny, transphobia, homophobia, classism, ableism, and so forth. Again, I know there is always room for improvement. However, you can speak to me frankly without worrying that I am too “fragile” to listen and understand. Fear no tears from me.
Polyam & Non-Monogamy Welcoming
I welcome people who are in non-monogamist relationships, and am prepared to address the resulting complexities and issues in a context beyond “couples.”
FYI: I am using “polyam” as shorthand for “polyamory” instead of “poly” as many Polynesian people, who have used “poly” for decades as an identifier, would prefer non-Polynesian polyamorists to adjust their terminology.
LGBTQIA+ Welcoming
I am committed to honoring all aspects of human sexual and gender diversity, including those aspects which are other than cisgendered and heteronormative. (This includes forms of asexuality, objectum sexuality, etc.)
I have just been accepted as a “Volunteer Education Ambassador” for SAGE LGBT Aging programs and am available to give presentations to community organizations (online at present).
Kink-Aware and Welcoming
I have been listed in the National Coalition for Sexual Freedom’s “Kink-Aware Professional” listing for several years.
Adults Only
That said, I only work with people age 18 and above. I believe work with adolescents requires additional training, which I do not have.