Frequently Asked “Queerstions”

These are some of the many questions that are often asked towards/about the GLBTQ2A community, and have been answered below. If you have a question that you would like to know the answer to, contact us with your question and DaVinci Society’s Executive Board will consider adding it to the list below. Thanks!

What is the difference between sex and gender?

Gender refers to the characteristics of masculinity and femininity that are learned or chosen by a person. A person’s assigned sex does not always match their gender, and most people display traits of more than one gender. Sex refers to the biological traits used to characterize someone as either male or female.

Source: Missouri S&T Safe Space Manual (draft)

What is the difference between transsexual, transgender, and gender queer?
  • Transsexual: A person who either physically modifies the appearance of their gender/sex using hormones and/or surgery, or who strongly identifies with the gender/sex opposite to the one they were assigned at birth, or both. Transsexual people do not necessarily identify as transgender.
  • Transgender: An umbrella term for people whose gender identity is different from the sex and gender role they were assigned at birth. Transgender people do not necessarily want to have sex-reassignment surgery (SRS) and may or may not identify as transsexual. Transgender people can be heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, and may or may not identify as GLBTQ2A.
  • Gender Queer: A person who feels that they don’t fit in society’s gender binary. Often but not always, this identity includes a political desire to challenge societyÕs gender norms and the gender binary.

Source: Missouri S&T Safe Space Manual (draft)

Is it true that masturbation can cause infection?

Anything can cause an infection in your body if you are not clean or over work the “area.” Make sure to shower daily to keep up personal hygiene and be reasonable with your&hellips; “activities&hellips;” and be safe.

What are dental dams?

Dental dams or rubber dams are rectangular sheets of latex used in dentistry, specifically endodontic therapy. They are also used during sexual activities as a safe sex technique.

Source: Wikipedia

Can you get a hernia from sex with a large individual?

Ultimately, all hernias are caused by a combination of pressure and an opening or weakness of muscle or fascia: The pressure pushes an organ or tissue through the opening or weak spot. Sometimes the muscle weakness is present at birth; more often, it occurs later in life. Poor nutrition, smoking, and overexertion all can weaken muscles and make hernias more likely. Anything that causes an increase in pressure in the abdomen can then cause a hernia, including obesity, lifting heavy objects, diarrhea or constipation, or persistent coughing or sneezing.

In other words, yes you can, but if you would be in a condition that would allow a hernia to occur, you would likely cause the hernia in other daily activities.

Source: WebMD

What do I need to do as an ally?

An ally to a GLBTQ2A person is someone who supports them as a person and takes action to fight prejudice and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

There are no entrance requirements to be an ally—you are just awesome.

Source: Northern Illinois University

What do I do if my roommate or teacher finds out that I’m gay?

In the professional world, an instructor should have absolutely no difference in anything after finding a student to be GLBTQ2A oriented. If they do discriminate in any way, notify the department chair responsible for the instructor. If no action is taken, consult either , or if necessary, contact . The worst thing to do is remain silent.

If your roommate discovers your sexual orientation, hopefully nothing should change. If you experience issues with your roommate (in the Residential Halls), contact your RA and the Residential Director of your building, as they are trained to handle issues such as these. If no action is taken, again consult , or if necessary, contact .

What is an otter?

An otter (other than the mammal) is a gay man who is very hairy (like a “bear”) but weighs considerably less than one who would be considered a “bear.” In other words, a skinny “bear” is an otter.

Source: Urban Dictionary

What does the bible say about GLBT individuals?

As a very controversial issue, the DaVinci Society chooses not to address this question. For information on the issue, the documentary “For The Bible Tells Me So” is recommended.

Where can I go on campus or in town for information and support?

On campus, the DaVinci Society office hours (posted online) are a good resource for individuals wishing to address personal issues with an officer. Student Diversity Programs also provide support for GLBTQ2A individuals, as well as the Counseling Center. Student Health is also a good resource.

In town, there used to be an organization known as the “Rainbow Klub” which met monthly. At the time of writing, the club appears to have been disbanded.

Is homosexuality a choice?

Yes, a fabulous choice.

Seriously, though, many people believe that homosexuality is not a choice, and is in fact included in the genetic makeup of a person. The American Psychological Association (APA) has not confirmed the cause of sexuality (but no longer classifies homosexuality as a mental disorder). Quoted from their website:

There is no consensus among scientists about the exact reasons that an individual develops a heterosexual, bisexual, gay, or lesbian orientation. Although much research has examined the possible genetic, hormonal, developmental, social, and cultural influences on sexual orientation, no findings have emerged that permit scientists to conclude that sexual orientation is determined by any particular factor or factors. Many think that nature and nurture both play complex roles; most people experience little or no sense of choice about their sexual orientation.

Source: American Psychological Association